Organized jointly
by
Pak-Asia Youth Forum (PAYF)
in collaboration with
Iqra University (IU)
at
Iqra University Campus, Islamabad
on
16 December, 2025
Report compiled by
Pak-Asia Youth Forum (PAYF)
1. Introduction
The rapid expansion of digital media has significantly transformed the way information is produced, shared, and consumed. While digital platforms provide unprecedented access to information, they also pose serious challenges in the form of misinformation, disinformation, and manipulated content. In this evolving digital environment, the ability to critically assess information and engage responsibly online has become essential, particularly for youth.
In response to these challenges, the Pak-Asia Youth Forum (PAYF), in collaboration with Iqra University, organized the workshop titled “Innovista Digital Skills for the Modern World” at the Iqra University campus, Islamabad. The workshop aimed to strengthen digital literacy, enhance media verification skills, promote online safety awareness, and encourage responsible digital citizenship among young participants.
2. Objectives of the Workshop
The workshop was designed to achieve the following objectives:
- To develop a clear understanding of misinformation and disinformation in digital spaces
- To equip participants with practical fact-checking and verification skills
- To promote ethical and responsible use of digital and social media platforms
- To enhance awareness of online safety, privacy, and digital identity management
- To empower youth to engage critically and constructively in the digital ecosystem
3. Workshop Sessions and Proceedings
a) Opening Session
The workshop began with participant registration, followed by an opening session and welcome remarks. The Chief Guest, Dr. Adnan (Associate Dean), delivered the opening address, emphasizing the importance of digital skills, ethical online behavior, and informed youth participation in an increasingly information-driven world. An interactive ice-breaking session followed, allowing participants to introduce themselves and fostering a collaborative learning environment.
b) Disinformation and Strategic Narratives in the Digital Age
Speaker: Salman Javed (Director General, PAYF)
The first expert lecture was delivered by Salman Javed, focusing on disinformation and strategic narratives in the digital age. The session examined how false narratives, digital propaganda, and manipulated information are disseminated through online platforms to influence public opinion.
Participants gained insight into contemporary misinformation trends and the role of youth in identifying, questioning, and countering misleading digital content. The lecture emphasized critical thinking and responsible information sharing as key tools for combating disinformation.
c) Digital Media Fact-Checking and Verification Techniques
Speaker: Noor-ul-Huda
The second lecture was conducted by Noor-ul-Huda, focusing on digital media fact-checking and techniques to verify images, videos, and news content. The session addressed common methods used to spread misinformation through visual and multimedia content.
Participants were introduced to practical tools and techniques for verifying digital media, including image authentication, video verification, source cross-checking, and content analysis. This session enhanced participants’ ability to detect false or manipulated information and avoid the spread of misinformation.
d) Media Verification and Disinformation Exercises
Facilitator: Haleema Khalid
Following the expert lectures, Haleema Khalid facilitated an interactive session centered on media verification and disinformation exercises. This hands-on segment allowed participants to apply fact-checking techniques in real-time scenarios.
The exercises strengthened analytical and critical thinking skills, enabling participants to assess the credibility of online sources and distinguish between reliable information and deceptive content.
e) Online Safety, Privacy, and Managing Digital Identity
Speaker: Waqas Saeed (Digital Media & IT Expert)
The final session was conducted by Waqas Saeed, focusing on online safety, digital privacy, and managing digital identity. The lecture covered key cybersecurity concerns, online risks, data protection practices, and strategies for maintaining a secure digital presence.
Participants were guided on managing their digital footprint responsibly, particularly in academic and professional contexts. The session highlighted the long-term implications of online behavior and the importance of ethical digital engagement.
4. Participant Engagement and Learning Outcomes
The workshop witnessed active participation from students and young professionals. Participants engaged enthusiastically in discussions, asked relevant questions, and actively participated in verification exercises.
Key learning outcomes included:
- Improved understanding of misinformation and disinformation dynamics
- Practical knowledge of fact-checking and media verification tools
- Increased awareness of online safety and digital privacy
- Enhanced confidence in responsible and ethical digital engagement
5. Significance of the Workshop
The Innovista workshop addressed critical challenges of the modern digital environment by equipping the youth with essential knowledge and practical skills. The collaborative effort between Pak-Asia Youth Forum and Iqra University strengthened engagement between youth, academia, and civil society, contributing to informed and responsible digital participation.
6. Conclusion
The Innovista Digital Skills for the Modern World workshop successfully met its objectives by enhancing digital literacy, promoting critical thinking, and fostering responsible digital citizenship. Through expert-led sessions, practical exercises, and interactive discussions, participants were empowered to navigate digital spaces with greater awareness and responsibility.
The organizers extend their sincere appreciation to the esteemed speakers, facilitators, organizing team, and participants whose contributions made the workshop impactful and meaningful. The success of Innovista underscores the importance of continued initiatives aimed at strengthening digital resilience among youth.
