ISLAMABAD: Principal Information Officer (PIO) Raeesah Adil has announced that the Pakistan Information Service Academy, in collaboration with relevant institutions, will launch specialized training programs aimed at enhancing the professional skills of journalists, particularly women journalists.
Speaking during a special interactive session with women journalists at the National Press Club Islamabad, Raeesah Adil said the upcoming initiatives will focus on freelancing, digital media, climate reporting, and modern journalism skills to help media professionals adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
According to an official press release issued on Thursday, the PIO emphasized that the media industry is undergoing significant digital transformation, making it essential for journalists to upgrade their skills and remain competitive.
She assured participants that issues faced by women journalists would be effectively communicated to the relevant authorities and that every effort would be made to address their concerns.
Improved Facilities for Women Journalists
Raeesah Adil stressed the need for dedicated facilities for women journalists at the National Press Club, including:
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- A separate ladies’ room
- Resting area
- Day-care center for children
She pledged to raise these proposals with the appropriate forums.
The PIO also assured participants that proposals regarding accreditation cards, health cards, accreditation for digital journalists, and the establishment of a Women Journalists Help Desk at the Press Information Department (PID) would receive serious consideration.
Strengthening Government-Media Relations
Calling her appointment as Principal Information Officer both an honor and a major responsibility, Raeesah Adil said the government and media are important partners and must continue strengthening mutual trust and communication to ensure the public receives accurate, timely, and responsible information.
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She reiterated that accreditation issues and other professional challenges faced by women journalists would be addressed in coordination with relevant government institutions.
National Press Club Highlights Challenges
National Press Club President Abdul Razzaq Sial and Secretary Dr. Furqan Rao welcomed the PIO and appreciated her engagement with women journalists.
They acknowledged the vital role women journalists play in Pakistan’s media industry but noted that many continue to face challenges, including:
- Job insecurity
- Low salaries
- Limited training opportunities
- Inadequate workplace facilities
The club leadership expressed hope that the government would introduce practical measures to improve working conditions for women journalists.
Interactive Discussion
The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which women journalists discussed issues related to accreditation cards, workplace challenges, and professional development.
A large number of senior journalists, office-bearers of the National Press Club, governing body members, and women journalists from various media organizations attended the event. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the National Press Club presented a commemorative shield to PIO Raeesah Adil in recognition of her visit.
