A unique training program for Karachi’s district administration officers was held through a collaboration between the Global Neighborhood for Media Innovation (GNMI) and the Office of the Karachi Division Commissioner. The two-day training, held at the Deputy Commissioner South Complex, involved 43 officers from all seven districts of Karachi, including Deputy Commissioners, Additional Deputy Commissioners, and Assistant Commissioners.
The training was titled “Effective Media Handling and Strategic Communication for Public Officials,” focusing specifically on the art of engaging effectively with the public and media during crises, emergencies, and in rapidly changing media landscapes. During the training, officers were taught that simply talking to the media is not enough; delivering a message at the right time, in the right tone, and with the right words is an art. This is particularly critical when social media storms are continuously shaping public opinion, making it essential for government positions to be timely, reasoned, and impactful.
Faisal Aziz Khan, an experienced journalist and President of the popular U.S.-based media organization Plus, was the chief trainer for the program. He not only provided information but also gave participants a vision of how a public officer can become an expert in reaching the public’s heart in the digital age. His training included techniques for managing WhatsApp groups, dealing with the fake news storm on X (formerly Twitter), and effectively presenting the truth.
Chief Trainer Faisal Aziz Khan also taught participants how to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to achieve effective, credible, and timely messaging. Participants noted that this training gave their roles a new dimension, transforming them from mere policy enforcers to effective spokespeople who can build public trust during crises.
Another key element of the program was a session hosted by Syed Masood Raza, the General Secretary of GNMI and program host. He trained participants on how to present themselves confidently on the media, including important aspects of body language, voice modulation, tone, and professional appearance. Through press conference drills and real-time message development exercises, he helped participants better handle live interviews, press conferences, and other media formats.
Husnain Raza, Director of Programs at GNMI, emphasized in his opening remarks that the joint needs assessment conducted with the Commissioner’s Office on January 9, 2025 highlighted the urgent need for government officials to improve their communication skills during crises.
The training concluded with a formal certificate distribution ceremony held at the Karachi Commissioner House. Commissioner Karachi, Syed Hassan Naqvi, congratulated the participants and remarked that in today’s information age, the ability for government officers to establish clear, timely, and credible communication with the public is crucial. He praised the Global Neighborhood for Media Innovation for playing a significant role in bridging this gap.
Within bureaucratic circles, this training initiative has been viewed as a commendable step toward professional development in the civil service. GNMI’s program demonstrates that when the state, media, and technology align, it not only enhances the flow of information but also strengthens the bridge of trust between the government and the people.
