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What is Sahafi Summit?
Sahafi Summit has been envisioned as a forum for innovation and reflection on the evolving challenges and opportunities within journalism in Pakistan and the region. Amid rapid technological change and shifting media dynamics, the Summit provides an essential platform for dialogue around how journalists can adapt to new realities while safeguarding the democratic role of the press.
Building on the success of previous editions, Sahafi Summit 2025 aims to explore one of the most defining questions facing modern journalism: is Artificial Intelligence (AI) a friend or a foe for the future of media?
About
The Summit will examine the dual nature of AI: as a transformative ally that can enhance newsroom productivity and creativity, and as a potential adversary that risks spreading misinformation, displacing jobs, and undermining trust in media.
As AI reshapes news production, verification, and consumption, the journalism industry stands at a crossroads. On one hand, AI offers unprecedented opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and audience engagement. On the other, it raises serious ethical, economic, and editorial concerns which seek to disrupt journalistic norms and values.
Through a mix of expert-led discussions, peer-to-peer learning, and hands-on workshops, the Summit will bring together journalists, technologists, editors, and media educators to explore how AI can be harnessed responsibly to strengthen journalism rather than weaken it.
2025 Theme: AI in Journalism: A friend or A Foe
This year’s theme underscores the growing tension between technological advancement and journalistic integrity. As AI tools become increasingly embedded in newsroom workflows—from automated news writing and audience analytics to deepfake detection and visual storytelling—the need to strike a balance between innovation and ethics has never been more urgent.
By facilitating multi-stakeholder conversations, the summit aims to guide Pakistani newsrooms toward responsible AI adoption which aligns with journalistic values, human oversight, and the public interest.
Core Sub-Themes
AI and the Future of Newsrooms
How are AI technologies transforming the way news is gathered, verified, and distributed? This sub-theme will explore automation in newsrooms, AI-assisted reporting, and the implications for editorial workflows, creativity, and employment in journalism.
Misinformation, Deepfakes, and the Crisis of Truth
The same technologies that empower journalists are also being used to deceive audiences. This sub-theme will focus on the dangers of deepfakes, algorithmic manipulation and discuss tools, policies, and practices to safeguard information integrity in the AI era.
Ethics, Accountability, and Transparency in AI Journalism
With algorithms influencing editorial decisions and audience reach, questions of accountability and bias are becoming more critical. This sub-theme will address how journalists and media organizations can ensure transparency and ethical governance in AI use.
Format and Approach
The Sahafi Summit 2025 will continue its participatory and inclusive model, combining structured discussions with interactive learning. The event will include:
Keynote Sessions:
Thought leaders and innovators will explore the promise and perils of AI in journalism.
Panel Discussions:
Experts from media, academia, and technology will debate key ethical and professional dilemmas.
Breakout Sessions:
Small group dialogues on emerging AI tools, newsroom adaptation, and local challenges.
Hands-on Workshops:
Practical sessions on AI-assisted reporting, fact-checking, and verification techniques.
Agenda
Expected Outcomes
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