LAHORE: A technical session has deliberated on as how the Media and Information Literacy (MIL) can serve as a tool to combat disinformation, foster critical thinking, and build democratic resilience among citizens, particularly youth.

Unesco, in collaboration with the Department of Digital Media Punjab University, the Media Foundation 360 and the Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services (PIPS) organized the technical session titled “Shaping National Policy: Enhancing Policymakers’ Understanding of MIL Challenges here on Friday.

The session brought together parliamentarians, media professionals, communication strategists, and academic experts to discuss the integration of Media and Information Literacy into Pakistan’s national policy frameworks.

PIPS Executive Director Asim Khan Goraya emphasized the importance of equipping policymakers with strategic insights into the risks posed by misinformation in the digital age.

PU Department of Digital Media chairperson and the lead for the strategy development Prof. Dr. Savera Mujib Shami presented the key elements of the draft National MIL Strategy.

She highlighted the strategy’s focus on embedding MIL into Pakistan’s educational curricula, media practices, and governance systems, with an emphasis on youth empowerment, gender inclusion, and ethical digital engagement.

Officer-in-Charge of the Unesco office in Pakistan Antony Kar Hung Tam underlined it’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in building inclusive knowledge societies.

Published in Dawn, May 17th, 2025