Marking Global Media Literacy Week 2024, The Urban Unit organized a panel discussion on “The New Digital Frontiers of Information: Media and Information Literacy for Public Interest Information.”
The forum brought together known media professionals, academics, and policymakers to explore the evolving role of media in public interest information, civic responsibility, and empowering youth.
In her welcome note, Memoona Arslan Bhatti, Senior Communication Specialist Urban Unit emphasized the importance of media literacy in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape and its crucial role in turning citizens informed and responsible. Dr. Ayesha Ashfaq, Chairperson and Associate Professor, Department of Development Communication, Punjab University highlighted ethical challenges and pressures that media professionals face and emphasized the importance of maintaining objectivity in digital age.
Arslan Rafiq Bhatti, Bureau Chief GTV News Lahore highlighted the essential role of media in balancing freedom of information with responsibility of delivering credible, unbiased news. He pointed out that while the media must uphold transparency and open access, it also has a duty to ensure that the information shared is accurate and well-researched.
Mubashara Sultan, Senior Producer Current Affairs PTV News, presented on the role of public interest information in promoting civic responsibility while illustrating how public interest reporting strengthens civic engagement and democratic values. Dr. Safa Ilyas Ahmed, Assistant Professor and Head of Media Studies Department University of South Asia highlighted the complex role of digital media in shaping public knowledge. She elaborated how digital platforms can be powerful tools for sharing valuable information while also unintentionally spreading misinformation.
Muhammad Ahmed Mustafa, renowned filmmaker, educationist, and entertainment activist, emphasized the importance of integrating media literacy into school curricula. He argued that equipping students with media literacy skills would enhance their ability to critically evaluate information and navigate complex media landscapes.
Mian Asghar Saleemi, Senior Reporter at Express News, and Amer Malik, Senior Journalist and Correspondent at The News International talked about the significant role of press in shaping the mindset of young people. They discussed how media, through public interest information, can serve as a powerful tool to engage youth, fostering awareness of their civic duties and encouraging them to take active roles in societal issues.
The session concluded with closing remarks signifying a collaborative commitment to promoting media literacy and fostering an informed society. The participants were actively involved in the discussion; stating that media practitioners and academia alike needs to collaborate while making syllabus of information and media studies so as to meet the dynamic needs of changing times. The speakers appreciated the Urban Unit for bringing to light the much-needed subject pertaining to daily life of everyone.
