Lahore, 2 September 2022 (TDI): The Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN), in collaboration with the US Mission in Pakistan, organized a five-day master class on “Fact Checking: Countering Fake News in Modern Media for Supporting Democracies.”
The event was organized in collaboration with the US Educational Foundation in Pakistan and the Forman Christian College University (FCCU), in Lahore. More than 40 established and emerging media professionals across Pakistan participated in the event.
During the five-day master class, participants received in-depth mentorship and training to scale up their ideas and initiatives to combat fake news and disinformation.
They also received training on ethical journalism and publishing skills to support safer societies regionally and nationally.
Remarks by Consul General of US
William Makaneole, Consul General at the U.S. Consulate in Lahore, congratulated the participants for successfully completing the training. Moreover, he urged them to improve the quality of journalism and public discourse in their local communities.
He stated that “journalists hold leaders and organizations accountable. They provide a voice for people who otherwise would be unheard.” He emphasized that their work is vital for good governance and a stable society.
Further, the Consul General also highlighted that this year marks the 75th anniversary of relations between the United States and Pakistan.
He remarked that the partnership between two countries is based on shared interests, common goals, and expanding trade and investment.
In addition, he appreciated the role of PUAN which it plays in strengthening people-to-people ties between the US and Pakistan. He also applauded Forman Christian College for its world-class expertise and innovative training that is a model for fortifying the media in the country.
Remarks by Rector of FCCU
Dr. Jonathan Addleton, Rector of Forman Christian College University, noted the value of the program for its participants.
He stated, “FCCU is delighted to partner with the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network for this important event, one that emphasizes fact-based approaches to journalism as a viable approach for countering fake news.”
Pakistan-US partnerships
The Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN) organizes events across Pakistan through 14 regional chapters. Activities of PUAN include community service projects, leadership training, roundtable discussions, and entrepreneurship programs.
Moreover, The U.S. government funds one of the largest professional and academic exchange programs in Pakistan, sending approximately 800 Pakistanis to the United States on exchanges every year.
Further, the U.S. government has funded more than 14,000 Pakistani students to study in the States, during the past 75 years.
