Correspondent (Muhammad Ihtisham)
CHAKDARA: The University of Malakand organized an awareness seminar to mark Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2026 under the theme, “We All Play a Part – Media and Information Literacy for the People.”
The seminar aimed to raise awareness among students, faculty members and participants about the growing importance of media and information literacy in today’s rapidly evolving digital environment.
Meritorious Professor Dr. Muhammad Idrees, Vice Chancellor of the University of Malakand, attended the event as the chief guest, while Mr. Mahmood Jan Baber, Advisor to the Technocrat-Based Advisory Council of the Government of Pakistan and Bureau Chief of SAMAA TV Peshawar, participated as the guest speaker.
Addressing the participants, Mr. Mahmood Jan Baber highlighted the importance of responsible media consumption, critical thinking, digital awareness and information verification. He also discussed the challenges posed by misinformation, disinformation and the rapidly changing digital information landscape.
He emphasized the need to develop media-literate citizens who can distinguish between authentic information and misleading content while using digital platforms responsibly.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Muhammad Idrees said that media and information literacy had become an essential skill for students and citizens alike.
He observed that in an era dominated by social media, digital platforms and artificial intelligence, the ability to critically evaluate information, identify credible sources and distinguish facts from misinformation was crucial for informed decision-making and responsible citizenship.
The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the responsibility of educational institutions, media professionals and individuals in promoting ethical communication, digital responsibility and informed public engagement.
The seminar was organized by the Media and Digital Literacy Society in collaboration with the Media Cell and Youth Development Center of the University of Malakand.
The event was attended by university deans, faculty members, administrative officers, Mr. Ikramullah Arif, Public Relations Officer of the University of Veterinary Sciences Swat, and a delegation from Chakdara Press Club led by its President, Muhammad Jalil.
At the conclusion of the seminar, the Vice Chancellor thanked the guest speaker, distinguished guests, students and other participants for their presence. He expressed his commitment to providing students with further opportunities to enhance their media literacy skills and promoting responsible citizenship.
Following the seminar, an awareness walk was organized under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Muhammad Idrees and guest speaker Mr. Mahmood Jan Baber to highlight the significance of Global Media and Information Literacy Week.
The initiative reflects the University of Malakand’s commitment to promoting critical thinking, digital awareness, responsible media engagement and the development of informed citizens capable of navigating the challenges of the modern information age.
