Islamabad: The Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI) conducted a five-day Capacity-Building Training Programme for a cohort of journalists from Punjab on reporting human rights, fundamental freedoms and democratic process - safely, accurately, independently, and in an inclusive manner.
The initiative was aimed at empowering journalists to build robust, ethical careers while steering the intricacies of modern-day journalism. The training session took place in Islamabad and was attended by journalists from various areas of Punjab, including Faisalabad, Khanewal, Rawalpindi, and Bahawalpur.
The training sessions featured a diverse, educated, and skilled panel of eminent trainers including Myra Imran, Aftab Alam, Zahid Abdullah, Nizam Khan Salarzai, Waqas Naeem, Bilal Dar, Hasnain Ghayoor, Adnan Rehmat, Zafarullah Khan, Saifullah Khoso, Tanzeela Mazhar, and Ghulam Murtaza. These experts provided detailed insights into the various facets of journalism in the country through interactive sessions and activities specifically designed to engage participants in a constructive discussion.
Key features of the training included bridging the gap between conventional and modern journalism, ensuring a free, expressive media landscape in Pakistan, and using AI and Machine Learning for sound reporting. The training sessions served as a reminder to the journalists about their responsibilities of unbiased reporting, modernizing journalism by using digital means, negative impacts of disinformation and misinformation, and the need for a gender inclusive work environment in a field dominated by men at large.
It was emphasised that collection of data, and authenticating helps to enhance the credibility of journalistic reporting. The training emphasised on the responsibilities of journalists in unbiased reporting, integrating digital tools for modern journalism, and fostering an inclusive work environment in the male dominated field.
The training programme organised by CPDI highlighted the former’s commitment to strengthening media engagement. The training session served as a reminder of the role journalists have to play in upholding ethics and promoting freedom of speech and freedom of expression.