ISLAMABAD: In a major step toward strengthening media education in Pakistan, Khyber Network and Iqra University held a high-level strategic consultative meeting in Islamabad aimed at building a stronger connection between academia and the professional media industry.
The important session took place at the Khyber Network headquarters and was chaired by Kaiwan Hamid Raja, Chief Executive Officer of Khyber Digital and Executive Director of Khyber Network. Mrs. Mariyam Kaiwan, President of Khud Mukhtar SAWI, also attended the meeting.
Representing Iqra University Islamabad were Dean Professor Dr. Eatzaz Ahmed, Head of the Media Studies Department Dr. Majid Ali Shah, Head of Social Sciences Dr. Sheharyar Khan, Senior Lecturer Syed Okasha Nadeem, Senior Lecturer Shirin Ahmed, Senior Lecturer Muhammad Umar, Senior Lecturer Syed Yousaf Raza, and Head of Career Services Badar Abbas Shah.
The meeting focused on practical ways to connect classroom learning with real-world media industry demands. Participants discussed the need to redesign media studies programs to match the fast-changing digital media environment. Special attention was given to hands-on student training, internships, specialized workshops, studio-based learning, and access to modern media production tools.
During the discussion, Khyber Network and Iqra University highlighted the importance of practical exposure for media students. Both sides agreed that academic institutions must work closely with media organizations to prepare students for modern journalism, broadcasting, and digital content production.
A major highlight of the meeting was the recognition of KAMTECH, the Khyber Academy for Media Technologies. The initiative was appreciated for its role in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practice by equipping students with practical technical skills required in professional media organizations.
In a landmark decision, Khyber Network and Iqra University agreed to establish the Academia to Media Council (ATOM). This newly formed platform will bring together university faculty and media professionals to jointly design projects, training modules, and learning opportunities that will produce highly skilled graduates ready to meet professional media standards.
The ATOM Council is expected to create long-term opportunities for students by offering direct exposure to media operations, newsroom practices, production techniques, and digital journalism trends.
This collaboration marks an important milestone for Pakistan’s education and media sectors. It reflects a shared commitment to building future media professionals who are fully prepared to meet the challenges of an evolving communication landscape.