To tackle the growing menace of fake news and misinformation, the Press Information Department (PID) Karachi organized a two-day workshop for journalists from various media organizations on May 7th and 8th, 2024, at the PID Karachi office.
The primary objective of the workshop was not only to address the spread of fake news but also to educate journalists on Development Journalism, media ethics, and the promotion of a positive image of Pakistan through responsible reporting.
This initiative marks the beginning of a broader series of workshops and seminars planned by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, which will extend to Islamabad and other regional offices of PID.
Throughout the two-day workshop, participants engaged in brainstorming sessions and interactive exercises focused on the creation, causes, and impacts of fake news. They unanimously recognized the severity of the threat posed by fake news and misinformation, emphasizing the importance of combating it through fact-checking, AI tools, Google reverse imaging, and source identification methods.
The workshop also delved into the historical perspectives of disinformation and fake news, analyzing case studies such as the Arab Springs, US Presidential Elections, and the Indian Chronicles. By studying these examples, participants gained insights into the significant impact of fake news and misinformation on shaping pivotal events.
As the workshop concluded, participants were presented with certificates to acknowledge their participation, while the trainer received a memento in recognition of their contribution to the event. This collaborative effort underscores the government’s commitment to fostering responsible journalism and combating the spread of false information for the betterment of society.
