By Iftikhar Mashwani
As Pakistan navigates an era marked by complex geopolitical and geo-strategic challenges, the National Media Workshop organized by the National Defence University (NDU) in collaboration with the Institute for Strategic Studies, Research & Analysis (ISSRA),stands out as a unique platform that equips journalists with the tools to report responsibly, question intelligently, and contribute meaningfully to national discourse.
By fostering a shared understanding between media professionals and national security institutions, such initiatives help counter misinformation, promote transparency, and strengthen the bonds of trust essential for a resilient nation. The 15th National Media Workshop( NMW) not only deepened participants’ professional knowledge but also reinforced their sense of responsibility toward shaping narratives that reflect Pakistan’s aspirations, achievements, and resolve in the face of evolving challenges.
The 15th National Media Workshop,was very productive and useful for participants.The participants majority journalists from across Pakistan an in-depth understanding of pressing national and regional security challenges, evolving media landscapes, and strategic narratives that are shaping the country’s future.
The event provided an unprecedented opportunity for members of the media to interact directly with senior policymakers, defense officials, and subject-matter experts, fostering a spirit of informed dialogue and collaboration.
Director General ISSRA Maj. Gen. Raza Aizad a key host of the workshop brief the participants and underscored the significance of responsible media engagement in matters of national security. He described journalists as vital stakeholders whose work not only influences domestic perceptions but also plays a crucial role in strengthening Pakistan’s image on the global stage. His remarks set the tone for a workshop that aimed to bridge the gap between the media fraternity and national security institutions.
The workshop wad held from August 4 to August 8, 2025, the program featured an intensive five-day schedule with sessions led by eminent scholars, senior military officials, and policy experts. The inaugural day focused on “Navigating Uncertainty: Trends Reshaping the Global Strategic Landscape,” where Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed and experts from China, Russia, and the United States provided diverse perspectives on geopolitical trends and emerging regional dynamics. This was followed by a session titled “South Asia at Crossroads: Pathways for Regional Dialogue, Integration, and Maritime Security,” which examined the complexities and opportunities of regional cooperation in a sensitive geopolitical neighborhood.
Day two featured “Crafting Realities: The Art and Science of Narrative Building in the 21st Century,” a thought-provoking discussion on how narratives are constructed and the media’s central role in influencing public opinion. Later in the day, the focus shifted to “The News Media Landscape of Pakistan: Opportunities, Challenges, and the Road Ahead,” which emphasized innovation, ethical journalism, and adaptation in an era of rapid technological change.
The third day proved to be one of the highlights of the workshop, offering participants a chance to directly engage with Pakistan’s defense and strategic institutions. The detailed briefing by the Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif provided a comprehensive overview of Pakistan’s war against terrorism. He fielded questions from participants with clarity and openness, earning appreciation for addressing sensitive matters directly and dispelling misconceptions. The day also included visits to Pakistan Air Force facilities and other strategic establishments, where participants witnessed the professionalism, dedication, and technical capabilities of the armed forces. One participant reflected that every day of the workshop was an eye-opener, particularly the sessions with military professionals, which gave them a fresh perspective on Pakistan’s security posture and governance structures.
An important segment of the workshop was the visit to the state-of-the-art National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP) in Rawalpindi, a flagship undertaking of Aviation City Pakistan led by the Pakistan Air Force. NASTP’s mission to advance Pakistan’s aerospace industry through innovation hubs and clusters across the country was showcased in detail. The facility’s work spans design, research, and development in aviation, space, IT, and cyber technologies, aiming to create a vibrant ecosystem for indigenous technological advancement.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) also hosted the workshop participants at the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), where they were given an extensive briefing on Pakistan’s disaster preparedness and emergency response framework. The presentation highlighted NEOC’s real-time monitoring systems, coordination mechanisms, and data-driven decision-making tools, which enable efficient management of natural and man-made disasters. The importance of accurate and timely communication during crises was emphasized as a crucial factor in saving lives and minimizing damage.
The workshop concluded with a farewell ceremony hosted by NDU President Gen Babar Iftikhar, who reiterated the essential role of the media in safeguarding national security interests. He encouraged continuous interaction between journalists and policymakers to ensure that national narratives remain well-informed, balanced, and in line with Pakistan’s long-term interests.
In attendance were senior journalists from print, electronic, and digital media, as well as representatives from the civil service, the legal community, business circles, and political leadership. Notable participants included Iftikhar Mashwani, Editor-in-Chief World Tribune; Tariq Aziz, Bureau Chief TV-92; Usman Malik of Samaa TV; Yasir Malik of Aaj TV; Babar Yousafzai; Sayed Sultan Bukhari; Rizwan Jarral; Madiha Sarfraz; Sara Baloch; Dr Farhat Asif; Bilal Sethi; Qasim Awan; Anas Ahsan Malik; Sayed Mustafa Ali; Haroon Anjum; Omay Aimen; Wqas Rizvi; Qasim Malik; Rani Saifullah; Raheem Mehmood; Moeen Khar; Raheel Hassan; Sayeda Ainab Asif; Asif Sultan; Sidra; Mir Mohsin; M. Saddique Madani; Dr Muhammad Asim; and others who brought perspectives from diverse sectors of society.
