KARACHI: Media professionals, policymakers and industry leaders gathered to explore the future of radio broadcasting, particularly in Sindh and Balochistan, and discussed the digital transformation, community engagement, and long-term sustainability in the evolving media landscape.

They were speaking at the Radio Media Conference 2025, organised by the Global Neighbourhood for Media Innovation (GNMI) in partnership with the U.S. Consulate General to observe World Radio Day at the Arts Council of Pakistan, here on Thursday.

In his keynote address, Michael Chadwick, public affairs officer at the U.S. Consulate General Karachi, highlighted the United States’ commitment to media innovation in support of a stronger, safer, and more prosperous future. He also highlighted radio’s vital role in fostering civic engagement and driving economic development in Pakistan’s underserved regions.

Senior Minister of Sindh Sharjeel Inam Memon also delivered a keynote speech, and outlined the provincial government’s initiatives to expand radio’s reach, promote independent journalism, and encourage innovation in the media sector.

Najia Ashar, president of GNMI, emphasised radio’s enduring influence and the need for continued innovation in content creation, audience engagement, and revenue generation. “Radio is more than just a medium; it is a lifeline for communities,” she said.

“For decades, it has bridged information gaps, empowered marginalised voices, and strengthened public discourse. As technology advances, the United States is helping radio journalists evolve and leveraging digital platforms while maintaining grassroots impact.”

The conference also featured insights from Faysal Aziz Khan, broadcast journalist and president of PULSE (USA), who spoke on the importance of community-driven storytelling. “The future of radio lies in digital integration—podcasts, mobile streaming, and AI-driven content—while staying rooted in authentic storytelling,” he noted.

A panel discussion, “Radio 2.0: Exploring the Digital Broadcasting of Community-Centered Radio in Sindh and Balochistan,” brought together journalists and other media experts, including broadcast journalist Wusatullah Khan, radio media expert Zulfiqar Shah, station director Radio Pakistan Karachi Mehboob Sarwar, Director General Ministry of Information Pakistan Irum Tanveer, CEO FM 91, Sara Taher Khan. It was moderated by broadcast journalist Nadia Naqi.

The panel discussed emerging trends in digital radio, strategies for sustainable and inclusive programming, and the role of independent media in countering misinformation.

The conference concluded with a strategic roadmap for ensuring the long-term sustainability of radio media in Sindh and Balochistan. Key recommendations included expanding digital radio infrastructure to enhance accessibility, investing in journalist training programs to strengthen content production, developing sustainable funding models to support independent radio stations, advocating policy reforms to uphold media freedom and public interest programming.

Published in Dawn, February 14th, 2025