LAHORE: A research-based model developed at the Punjab University to identify propaganda and fake news was presented at a workshop on social media misinformation and migration at Bielefeld University in Germany.

The workshop examined methods for identifying and verifying misleading content on social media and its impact on public opinion, social perceptions and migration policy debates.

Punjab University Assistant Professor Dr Khuram Shahzad, who was invited as a resource person, conducted the session for BS and master’s students. Dr Aksakel of Bielefeld University’s Research Training Group on World Politics also attended. The methodologies were based on Dr Shahzad’s PhD research at PU, in which he developed a model comprising 11 scientific indicators for identifying propaganda.

Participants were briefed on verifying information, recognising misleading content and assessing fake news about migration.

Examples of misinformation circulating on social media in Germany were also discussed during a question-and-answer session.

Dr Shahzad said scientific methods for identifying fake news could help students guard against misinformation and develop a more evidence-based understanding of sensitive social issues.

Published in Dawn, October 8th, 2026