The University of Gujrat (UoG) organized a two-day workshop on ‘Media Literacy and Digital Rights’ at its Hafiz Hayat Campus to equip students with the skills needed to identify misinformation, counter fake news and use social media responsibly.
Workshop Details and Support
The workshop was arranged by the Centre for Media & Communication Studies (CMCS) with support from the European Union and the Centre for Peace & Development Islamabad.
Addressing the opening session, Dean Faculty of Arts Prof Dr Zahid Yousaf warned that the unchecked flow of digital content was increasingly blurring the line between truth and falsehood. “In today’s digital flood, journalism students must learn to rely only on credible sources,” he said.
Expert Sessions on Critical Thinking and Ethical Journalism
Dr Muhammad Yousaf, the workshop’s focal person, described misinformation, disinformation, fake news and deepfakes as “the tragedy of our times,” emphasizing that responsible digital practices had become essential in the modern information landscape.
The workshop featured six sessions conducted by experts, including Prof. Dr. Sher Zaman, legal scholar Farrukh Mushtaq Chaudhry, IT specialist Dr. Safiullah and communication scholar Dr Faiza Bajwa. The sessions focused on critical thinking, ethical journalism, responsible social media use and the impact of digital media on society.
Key Insights from Experts
Prof. Dr. Sher Zaman highlighted the adverse effects of excessive screen time on both mental and physical health, stressing the need for responsible social media use among young people.
Farrukh Mushtaq Chaudhry said educated youth could play a key role in promoting digital literacy and guiding society towards the responsible use of online platforms.
Dr. Safiullah discussed the influence of media in shaping emotions and public opinion, noting that positive storytelling could help rebuild trust and contribute to social development.
Dr. Faiza Bajwa emphasized the importance of respectful and ethical representation of women and minorities in digital spaces, calling for inclusive communication and fair portrayal.
Conclusion and Certificates Distribution
The workshop concluded with the distribution of certificates and shields among participants. Student groups also presented activities demonstrating their learning, highlighting the growing importance of media literacy in combating misinformation and fostering responsible digital citizenship.
