Punjab Takes Major Strides Toward Digital Transformation: Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman

By Farzana Chaudhry | Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE — Punjab Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman has said that under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the province has taken significant steps toward digital transformation through the introduction of e-governance, open data access, and digital monitoring systems that are enhancing transparency, efficiency, and public participation in governance.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the three-day “Sahafi Summit 2025”, organized by the Department of Media and Development Communication, University of the Punjab, the Minister underscored the government’s commitment to constructive engagement with the media.

> “Our policy is very clear — media is not the adversary of the government; it is a partner in truth, progress, and reform,” he said. “We view media as an instrument of self-correction, not as a shield against criticism. A free, informed, and professionally trained media is the true strength of democracy.”

The national summit, themed “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Journalism in Pakistan,” brought together leading journalists, policymakers, and media scholars from across the country to explore the evolving landscape of journalism in the era of artificial intelligence (AI).

Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman highlighted that AI has revolutionized news production, altering the nature, speed, and processes of journalism.

> “Today, information is not generated solely through human effort but through the integration of digital tools and algorithms. While AI offers efficiency and innovation, it also presents challenges that demand responsibility,” he noted. “The real test for journalism today is to use technology ethically — ensuring truth, accuracy, and the preservation of human values. We must ensure that AI enhances human capacity rather than replaces it.”

The Minister emphasized that journalism remains a vital bridge between the state and the people, linking truth with power. “As new technologies emerge, it is imperative that we uphold our moral and professional responsibilities,” he said.

He added that the Punjab Government is modernizing its information management systems to ensure timely and accurate access to official data for journalists. Collaborative training programs with universities and media academies have also been launched, focusing on digital journalism, AI, and responsible reporting.

The Minister further announced the launch of fellowship and internship programs for young journalists to provide practical exposure, alongside public-private partnerships for strengthening media institutions and progressive legislation to safeguard freedom of expression and ensure the safety of journalists.

The event was attended by Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali, senior journalist Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Shami, as well as prominent academics, policymakers, and media professionals.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor presented souvenir shields to the distinguished guests. The Finance Minister congratulated the University of the Punjab for hosting the summit, describing the dialogue on AI and the future of journalism as a “timely and visionary initiative” that would help shape future media policies and promote responsible and ethical journalism in Pakistan.