GUJRAT — Against the backdrop of a rapidly shifting media ecosystem, the University of Gujrat’s (UoG) Centre for Media & Communication Studies (CMCS) hosted a seminar titled “Evolving Media Landscape in Pakistan — Issues, Challenges and Future Prospects” at Hafiz Hayat Campus, bringing together senior journalists, academics and students to reflect on the responsibilities, ethics and future direction of journalism in the digital age.
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Organised by BS 3rd‑semester students under the supervision of Ms Sobia Farooq, the seminar aimed to deepen responsible media awareness and strengthen the intellectual and professional grounding of emerging journalists. Distinguished guests and speakers included Dean Faculty of Arts Prof. Dr Zahid Yousaf, senior journalist and President Kunjah Press Club Yawar Abbas, In‑charge UoG Media Dr Muhammad Yousaf, along with Ali Raza, Shahid Ozair, Shahbaz Ahmad, Shahid Dar, Ehsan Faisal Kunjahi, Syed Hussain Akbar and others.
Addressing the participants, Yawar Abbas underscored journalism’s role as the fourth pillar of the state, tracing its evolution from monarchical power structures to modern institutional frameworks. He stressed that journalists must cultivate broad vision, identify societal issues with clarity and uphold truth with courage. Gujrat’s legacy of producing notable journalists, he said, should inspire students to pursue dynamic, fact‑based reporting.
Dr Muhammad Yousaf highlighted the transformative role of education in nurturing leadership and social responsibility. Emphasising community journalism, he noted that digital platforms have expanded public expression but also intensified the spread of misinformation. Digital literacy, critical reading and analytical skills, he said, are now indispensable for both journalists and audiences.
Ali Raza reaffirmed journalism as society’s “eyes and ears,” arguing that integrity, not sensationalism, defines credible reporting. While social media shapes news consumption, he maintained that print media retains its depth and reliability. Strict adherence to ethics, he added, remains non‑negotiable.
Shahid Ozair observed that conventional journalism has been overtaken by fast‑paced digital practices, making continuous learning essential. He warned that unverified news can distort collective thinking and undermine public trust.
Ms Sobia Farooq highlighted the intrinsic link between journalism, literature and knowledge, noting that extensive reading enriches journalistic depth. She also emphasised the reliance of national media on local reporting for authentic ground realities.
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Senior faculty member Dr Faiza Bajwa expressed confidence in the new generation’s ability to excel through modern skills, while student presenter Neha Zaib Dar reflected on journalism’s role in democracy, anti‑corruption efforts and the struggles faced by Pakistani journalists.