Training on digital media outreach stressed

LAHORE: In response to the shifting dynamics of digital media, discussions have emerged around the necessity for extensive training within civil society organisations (CSOs) across Pakistan.

Attention has been drawn to the diverse challenges faced, with an emphasis on the need for CSOs to strengthen their social media outreach, particularly in reaching rural communities and addressing the digital divide.

Development practitioners call for the promotion of gender-sensitive and inclusive content to be disseminated across digital landscape in the #SocioCivil meetup. The event organised by the Global Neighbourhood for Media Innovation (GNMI) in collaboration with the United States Department of State, engaged prominent figures from civil society and digital media influencers to explore the evolving landscape of digital media in Pakistan and its potential for driving social and civil change.

The event discussed various aspects of leveraging digital media for societal impact, ethical considerations in digital advocacy, and strategies for effective collaboration between civil society organisations (CSOs) and digital influencers.

Najia Ashar, Senior Broadcast Journalist and President of GNMI, highlighted the Influence UP programme's success in training local social media influencers to create meaningful content that resonates with audience and promotes positive social narratives.

She emphasised GNMI's commitment to promoting peace journalism, environmental journalism, and gender-sensitive reporting through innovative media approaches. Diverse perspectives on the digital media landscape were presented by attendees. Zulfiqar Shah from the Sindh Human Rights Commission stressed the importance of bridging the gap between traditional civil society and digital media organisations.