By Our Correspondent
ISLAMABAD : The 15th National Media Workshop (15th NMW), organized by the National Defence University (NDU) in collaboration with the Institute for Strategic Studies, Research & Analysis (ISSRA), on the other day concluded in Islamabad, providing journalists from across Pakistan a comprehensive understanding of pressing national and regional security issues, media challenges, and strategic narratives shaping the future.
The workshop opened with an inaugural address by DG ISSRA Maj. Gen. Raza Aizad, who welcomed participants and underscored the importance of fostering informed media engagement on national security matters. He highlighted the role of journalists as key stakeholders in shaping responsible narratives and strengthening Pakistan’s image globally.
Spanning five intensive days from August 4 to August 8, 2025, the workshop featured a rich lineup of sessions led by eminent scholars, military officials, and policy experts. The program was carefully designed to bridge the gap between the media and national security institutions, fostering a deeper appreciation for Pakistan’s strategic environment.
On the inaugural day, discussions focused on “Navigating Uncertainty: Trends Reshaping the Global Strategic Landscape”, where experts including Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed and experts from China,Russia and USA offered diverse perspectives on evolving regional and global geopolitical challenges. This was followed by a session titled “South Asia at Crossroads: Pathways for Regional Dialogue, Integration, and Maritime Security”, addressing the complexities of regional cooperation and security.
Day two’s agenda included “Crafting Realities: The Art and Science of Narrative Building in the 21st Century”, which explored the crucial role of media in shaping public opinion and national discourse. Later, participants analyzed the “News Media Landscape of Pakistan: Opportunities, Challenges, and the Road Ahead”, with an emphasis on innovation and ethical journalism in a rapidly changing environment.
The third day provided a rare opportunity for attendees to engage directly with key institutions of Pakistan’s defense and strategic apparatus. A highlight was the detailed briefing by Director-General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif, who not only delivered a comprehensive overview on war against terorr but also answered participants’ questions with remarkable clarity. Attendees expressed satisfaction that the DG ISPR addressed their queries so effectively, noting that the session helped clear their doubts and enhanced their understanding of sensitive security matters. Visits to the Pakistan Air Force and other strategic establishments followed, offering valuable insights into the professionalism and dedication of Pakistan’s armed forces.
Reflecting on the experience, one participant remarked, “Each day was an eye-opener — from learning about Pakistan’s strategic posture to understanding the critical roles played by various ministries, including Foreign Affairs and Defense. The sessions with military professionals were particularly inspiring. It gave us a fresh perspective on our own country, and I must say, the level of professionalism I witnessed was truly commendable. Thanks to the National Defense University NDU , Pakistan Army and Pakistan Air Force for this enlightening exposure.”
The participants of 15th National Media Workshop (NMW) also visited state of art and world class National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP) in Rawalpindi. NASTP is an undertaking within Aviation City Pakistan led by the Pakistan Air Force. Its primary objective is to enhance the nation’s capabilities in the Aerospace Industry by establishing clusters and innovation hubs throughout the country. NASTP aims to create an ecosystem that fosters design, research, development, and innovation, including aviation, space, IT, and cyber sectors.
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) also hosted participants of 15th National Media Workshop (NMW) from the National Defence University (NDU) for an exposure visit to the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC).The visiting delegation comprised senior professionals from various media houses, influencers, and public sector institutions.
A comprehensive briefing was given on NEOC’s operational framework, real-time disaster monitoring systems, national coordination mechanisms, and the pivotal role it plays in disaster preparedness and response across Pakistan.
The session highlighted NEOC’s use of technology, data-driven decision-making tools, and inter-agency communication protocols that enable efficient emergency management at the national level. It also underscored the importance of strategic communication and timely dissemination of accurate information during disasters.
The workshop culminated with a farewell ceremony hosted by NDU President Gen Babar Iftikhar, highlighting the essential role of media in national security and encouraging continuous dialogue between journalists and policymakers.
As Pakistan navigates complex geo-political,geo-strategical challenges, initiatives like the National Media Workshop play a vital role in equipping journalists with the knowledge and tools to report responsibly and contribute meaningfully to public understanding.
Senior journalist from print,electronic,digital media,representative from
civil service,lawyers community,businessmen,political figures also attended the workshop.
Iftikhar Mashwani,Editor .in.Chief World Tribune,Triq Aziz Bureau Chief TV-92,Usman Malik Samaa TV ,Yasir Malik Ajj TV,Babar Yousafzia,Sayed Sultan Bukhari,Rizwan Jarral,Madiha Sarfraz,Sara Baloch,Dr Farhat Asif,Bilal Sethi,Qasim Awan,Anas Ahsan Malik,Sayed Mustafa Ali, Haroon Anjum,OmayAimen,Wqas Rizvi,Qasim Malik, Rani Saifullah,Raheem Mehmood,Moeen Khar,Raheel Hassan,Sayeda Ainab Asif,Asif Sultan,Sidra ,Anas Ahsan Malik,Mir Mohsin,M.Saddique Madani,Haroon Anjum,Dr Muhammad Asim,Sayed Mustafa Ali also attended the 15th NMW.
