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ISLAMABAD, Aug 26 (Diplomatic Star): In a significant step towards empowering the journalism community in Pakistan, a team from the British High Commission, accompanied by senior journalists, visited the National Press Club (NPC) in Islamabad.
The visit aimed to provide guidance and support to journalists seeking to enhance their careers through prestigious programs such as the Chevening Scholarship and the South Asian Journalism Programme (SAJP).
The initiative was designed to inform journalists about the opportunities these programs offer, especially for those looking to advance their careers in journalism. The Chevening Scholarship, in particular, was highlighted as a valuable avenue for mid-career journalists to gain international exposure and further develop their skills.
During the visit, Deputy Communications Officer Sneha Lala briefed the attending journalists on the Chevening program, encouraging them to take advantage of this opportunity.
She emphasized that the program is specifically tailored to support mid-career professionals, offering them a unique platform to excel in their respective fields. Lala’s presentation aimed to demystify the application process and inspire more journalists to apply for this prestigious fellowship.
Shumaila Noreen, a senior journalist and alumna of the SAJP, shared her personal experience with the program, describing it as a “wonderful chance to advance your career.” She provided insights into the course structure and the challenges faced while studying in the United Kingdom, offering practical advice to aspiring applicants.
Another SAJP alumnus, senior journalist Shabbir Hussain, elaborated on the benefits of the program and the steps required to become a part of it.
He detailed the process of the one-year Chevening fellowship, highlighting the key requirements and the importance of thorough preparation when applying. Hussain’s experience underscored the transformative impact that such international programs can have on a journalist’s career.
Both Noreen and Hussain assured their full support to fellow journalists interested in applying, offering to provide guidance and mentorship throughout the application process. They also expressed their commitment to continuing visits to the National Press Club to ensure that more journalists are informed and supported in their career development efforts.
President of the National Press Club, Azhar Jatoi, expressed his gratitude to the British High Commission team for their visit and emphasized the need for ongoing initiatives like this to support journalists. He recognized the importance of providing journalists with opportunities for professional growth and international exposure, which are crucial for the advancement of journalism in Pakistan.
Secretary of the NPC, Nayyar Ali, echoed the president’s sentiments, requesting the British High Commission team to continue their support for journalists. He highlighted the value of such collaborative efforts in creating a supportive and nurturing environment for the journalism community in Pakistan.
This visit marks a significant collaboration between the British High Commission and the National Press Club, aimed at uplifting journalists by providing them with the tools and opportunities to grow professionally. The guidance and mentorship offered by experienced journalists like Shumaila Noreen and Shabbir Hussain are expected to inspire and motivate others to pursue these opportunities with confidence.
The British High Commission’s commitment to supporting journalism in Pakistan is evident through initiatives like this, which not only provide practical assistance but also foster a sense of community among journalists.
By continuing to offer such support, the High Commission is playing a crucial role in shaping the future of journalism in Pakistan, ensuring that journalists have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive in an increasingly globalized and competitive field.
This collaborative effort is a testament to the potential of international partnerships in empowering local communities and professionals, ultimately contributing to the overall development of the country’s media landscape.
