LAHORE: Journalists from electronic, broadcast and print mediums discussed issues of gender equity and women empowerment in the context of media reporting, at a workshop hosted by Aurat Foundation in partnership with USAID and Individualland Pakistan (IL-Pakistan).
The USAID-supported Gender Equity Programme (GEP) was aimed at sensitising the media on the way gender and women issues are reported in the media. Shaukat Ali Ashraf moderated the event, while Rehana Shaikh was the key resource person for the event, on behalf of IL-Pakistan.
The discussions focused on the sensitivity of communicating women related issues through media and selection of appropriate messages in this regard. On the second and final day, President Electronic Media Shahid Ali, and Faisalabad Electronic Media Secretary GA Tanveer, were the chief guests of the event and distributed certificates among the participants at the conclusion of the session.
IL-Pakistan has been an active, non-partisan organisation since its inception, and has worked on pertinent issues regarding governance, rule of law, media communication skills, strengthening civil society and democratic development.
Gender inequality is one of the most pressing issues in Pakistan. Social taboos, religious and cultural elements are among the leading factors that result in a society that does not believe in gender equity. IL-Pakistan also conducted a base line survey to find trends and perceptions of various media projections among the communities. The project will also contribute to lobbying and advocacy of this important issue by using media platforms, particularly to influence the policy formulation process. The US government, through USAID and in partnership with the Aurat Foundation, had launched a five-year GEP in Pakistan in 2010 to advance human rights and support Pakistani government’s policies against gender inequities. More sensitisation sessions will be held in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, Hyderabad and Multan.
Source: Daily Times
Date:8/25/2011