The UMT School of Media and Communication Studies highlighted the significance of environmental crises faced by Pakistan recently and linked it with World Press Freedom Day by organising a debate titled ‘A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crises'.
City News Network Chief Editor/Director Salim Bokhari, IDEA Pakistan Executive Director Salman Abid, Lahore Press Club Senior Vice President Shiraz Hasnat, and news anchor Imran Sanaullah shed light on the topic.
Salim Bokhari courageously took the responsibility that the media houses have not focused on the alarming climate change and issues. Mr Salman Abid pointed out four major issues – urbanization, extensive population growth, too much infrastructure and less agriculture, and lack of a proper policy. He stressed that academia should introduce a subject related to climate.
Shiraz suggested introducing a special course on the matter. Imran Sanaullah stressed the need for a comprehensive campaign to cope with the challenge.
He said unfortunately the media focuses on the reactions/responses rather than precautionary/pre-emptive measures.
Students actively partake in the Q/A session, followed by concluding remarks of SMCS Dean Prof Dr Anjum and the distribution of souvenirs to the guests.