The Radio Media Conference, organized by the Global Neighbourhood for Media Innovation (GNMI) with the support of U.S. Consulate General Karachi, took place on February 13, 2025, at the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi. The event was organized to commemorate World Radio Day and served as a high-impact platform to honor radio’s legacy and explore its future in the evolving digital media landscape.

The conference brought together government officials, senior journalists, radio professionals, policymakers, and civil society organizations to discuss the transition of radio to digital platforms, its sustainability, and its critical role in community engagement, particularly in underserved regions of Sindh and Balochistan.

Key Highlights

The panel discussion, “Radio 2.0: Exploring the Digital Broadcasting of Community-Centered Radio in Sindh and Balochistan,” was moderated by senior journalist Nadia Naqi. Panelists included Wusatullah Khan – Senior Broadcast Journalist, Zulfiqar Shah – CEO, FM 105, Mehboob Sarwar – Station Director, PBC Karachi, Irum Tanveer – Director General, Press Information Department, Sara Taher Khan – CEO, FM 91, highlighted the importance of subsidized licensing for community radio, youth capacity-building through training initiatives, and innovation in digital storytelling to keep radio relevant in the digital age.

A documentary titled “Voices of Connection – Celebrating World Radio Day 2025” was screened, showcasing radio’s evolution in Pakistan and its role in bridging information gaps, promoting community resilience, and amplifying regional narratives in Sindh and Balochistan.

Impact

96% of participants committed to support the framework which focuses on digital innovation, financial sustainability, policy reform, and capacity building to sustain growth of radio media in Sindh and Balochistan.