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LAHORE, Nov 11 (APP):Provincial Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman said on Tuesday that the Punjab government has taken major strides towards digital transformation by introducing e-governance, open data access, and digital monitoring systems which are enhancing transparency, efficiency, and public participation in governance.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the three-day “Sahafi Summit 2025” organized by the Department of Media and Development Communication, University of the Punjab, the Minister emphasized that the government firmly believes in constructive engagement with the media.
“Our policy is very clear — media is not the adversary of the government; it is a partner in truth, progress, and reform. We consider media as an instrument of self-correction, not as a shield against criticism. A free, informed, and professionally trained media is the true strength of democracy,” he remarked.
The national summit, themed “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Journalism in Pakistan,” brought together distinguished journalists, policymakers, and media academics from across the country to deliberate on the evolving landscape of journalism in the age of artificial intelligence.
Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman noted that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed the nature, speed, and processes of news production. “Today, information is not generated solely through human effort but through the integration of digital tools and algorithms. While AI offers efficiency and innovation, it also brings challenges that demand responsibility. The real test for journalism today is to use technology ethically — ensuring truth, accuracy, and the preservation of human values. We must ensure that AI enhances human capacity rather than replaces it,” he stated.
The Minister further highlighted that journalism has always served as a vital bridge between the state and the people, linking truth with power. “As new tools and technologies emerge, it is imperative that we remain conscious of our moral and professional responsibilities,” he added.
He said that the Punjab Government is modernizing its information management systems to provide journalists with timely and accurate access to official data. The government, he added, has initiated collaborative training programs with leading universities and media academies focusing on digital journalism, artificial intelligence, and responsible reporting.
Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman informed that fellowship and internship programs for young journalists have also been launched to help them gain practical exposure. The government is promoting public-private partnerships for the growth of media institutions and is introducing progressive legislation to ensure freedom of expression and the safety of journalists, thereby creating a secure and dignified working environment for the media community, he added.
The event was attended by Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, Vice Chancellor University of the Punjab Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali, senior journalist Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Shami, as well as prominent media professionals, academics, policymakers, and students.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor presented souvenir shields to the distinguished guests. The Finance Minister congratulated the University of the Punjab on organizing the summit, terming the dialogue on “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Journalism in Pakistan” a timely and visionary initiative. He expressed hope that such academic forums would continue to shape future media policies and contribute to the promotion of responsible and ethical journalism in Pakistan.