Under-reported: Science journalist forum proposed

The seminar, “Science Communication and Journalism”, was organised on Tuesday by COMSATS in partnership with ECOSF.

Participants of a seminar pledged to immediately initiate work on forming a “Science Journalist Association of Pakistan” to highlight work of scientists in the country.

The seminar, “Science Communication and Journalism”, was organised on Tuesday by COMSATS in partnership with the ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF).

Information Secretary Dr Nazir Saeed, presiding over the inaugural ceremony, urged the national media to devote at least five per cent of their air-time to promoting science in the country. He pledged his ministry’s support to any such proposals.

COMSATS Executive Director Dr Imtinan Elahi Qureshi said the work of scientific institutions particularly the contributions that Pakistan has made to the progress of science and technology in the developing world remain under reported. Noting the inadequate coverage of science related activities in the media, he stressed creating triangular relationship between the scientists, journalists and public for effectively communicating the benefits of science and technology to the society.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 11^th, 2014.