The Sahafi Summit 2024 concluded last week with an aim to create an “enabling environment” for journalism in Pakistan.
The conference, held from December 11 to 13 at the Beaconhouse National University (BNU) in Lahore, came to a close with a joint statement of intent. It was drafted during a working session on the third day of the event, which featured academics, journalists, and civil society activists.
The statement lays out six primary objectives identifying key areas where improvements and interventions can be instituted to bridge the gap between academia and media industry.
The first objective is to create an enabling environment for journalism in the country by promoting meaningful internet access, freedom of expression online and offline, and an informed media consumption.
The statement calls for strengthening collaboration among professionals, educators, and media students through networking opportunities. This will help aspiring journalists with opportunities in journalism and media education.
Other objectives include promoting a gender-sensitive and feminist media environment; engaging in collective advocacy, including working with the Higher Education Commission (HEC); and facilitating skill-based and practical training.
“By focusing on these areas of action, the partners of the Sahafi Summit aim to create a journalism ecosystem rooted in education, innovation, and integrity,” the statement reads. “These efforts will empower future journalists, strengthen the relationship between academia and industry, and promote an environment of trust essential for the growth of independent and impactful journalism.”
The Sahafi Summit 2024 was organised by Media Matters for Democracy (MMfD), BNU, and the Association for Media and Communication and Academic Professionals (AMCAP). The theme for this year’s edition was “Youth Leadership for a Resilient Media Ecosystem”. Media partners included SAMAA, The Current, 365 News, and Independent Urdu.
