Karachi, (PR) : Media professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders convened at the Radio Media Conference 2025 in Karachi on Thursday to explore the future of radio broadcasting in Sindh and Balochistan. The discussions centered on digital transformation, community engagement, and long-term sustainability in the evolving media landscape.
Organized by the Global Neighbourhood for Media Innovation (GNMI) in partnership with the U.S. Consulate General Karachi, the conference was held at the Arts Council of Pakistan in celebration of World Radio Day, an international observance recognizing radio’s pivotal role in public discourse and access to information.
In his keynote address, Michael Chadwick, Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Consulate General Karachi, underscored the United States’ commitment to media innovation in support of a stronger, safer, and more prosperous future. He highlighted radio’s vital role in fostering civic engagement and driving economic development in Pakistan’s underserved regions.
Sharjeel Inam Memon, Senior Minister of Sindh, also delivered a keynote speech, outlining the provincial government’s initiatives to expand radio’s reach, promote independent journalism, and encourage innovation in the media sector.
Opening the conference, Najia Ashar, President of GNMI, emphasized radio’s enduring influence and the need for continued innovation in content creation, audience engagement, and revenue generation. “Radio is more than just a medium; it is a lifeline for communities,” she said. “For decades, it has bridged information gaps, empowered marginalized voices, and strengthened public discourse. As technology advances, the United States is helping radio journalists evolve—leveraging digital platforms while maintaining grassroots impact.”
The conference also featured insights from Faysal Aziz Khan, Senior Broadcast Journalist and President of PULSE (USA), who spoke on the importance of community-driven storytelling. “The future of radio lies in digital integration—podcasts, mobile streaming, and AI-driven content—while staying rooted in authentic storytelling,” he noted.
A panel discussion, “Radio 2.0: Exploring the Digital Broadcasting of Community-Centered Radio in Sindh and Balochistan,” brought together leading voices in the industry:
• Wusatullah Khan, Senior Broadcast Journalist
• Zulfiqar Shah, Radio Media Expert
• Mehboob Sarwar, Station Director, Radio Pakistan Karachi
• Irum Tanveer, Director General, Ministry of Information Pakistan
• Sara Taher Khan, CEO, FM 91
Moderated by Nadia Naqi, Senior Broadcast Journalist, the panel delved into emerging trends in digital radio, strategies for sustainable and inclusive programming, and the role of independent media in countering misinformation.
The conference concluded with a strategic roadmap for ensuring the long-term sustainability of radio media in Sindh and Balochistan. Key recommendations included:
• Expanding digital radio infrastructure to enhance accessibility.
• Investing in journalist training programs to strengthen content production.
• Developing sustainable funding models to support independent radio stations.
• Advocating policy reforms to uphold media freedom and public interest programming.
GNMI reaffirmed its commitment to working with local and international partners to support radio’s transition into the digital era while maintaining its role as a trusted source of information and civic engagement.
GNMI is a registered non-profit media development organization that drives social impact through innovative use of media and technology. The organization employs state-of-the-art literacy programs and runs rights-based advocacy campaigns on media platforms for sustainable, innovative, and empowering solutions.