PIPS and UNDP Digital Democracy Workshop in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Emphasizes Combating Misinformation and Effective Social Media Strategies

October 31, 2024 MEMBERS, SEMINARS & WORKSHOPS

The Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services (PIPS), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), successfully conducted a workshop on “Digital Democracy” at the Provincial Assembly of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This event, part of a series aimed at strengthening digital literacy among parliamentarians, addressed the impacts of misinformation, disinformation, and the role of artificial intelligence in shaping public perception.

The program commenced with a warm welcome from Ms. Samer Awais, Director General (PDP&C) at PIPS. She underscored the significance of this initiative as a platform for parliamentarians to gain insight into the potential threats of digital misinformation and disinformation. Ms. Awais highlighted that AI is increasingly utilized to spread falsehoods, affecting young people and influencing political opinions. She emphasized PIPS’ dedication to equipping lawmakers with the tools needed to understand and legislate around these digital challenges, ensuring parliamentarians remain proactive in safeguarding the public against online harms.

The workshop’s first module, led by Usman Zafar, UNDP’s Digital Specialist, covered “Understanding Social Media.” This session provided a comprehensive look at popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), YouTube, and TikTok. Usman delved into the nuances of information integrity, media bias, and the importance of critical thinking when engaging with online content. Participants found the presentation highly engaging, as Usman effectively linked theoretical concepts with practical, real-world implications.

Fakhar Kakakhel, a Senior Journalist and Digital Media Trainer, facilitated the second session on “Understanding Online Information Disorder.” Using relevant case studies from Pakistan, Mr. Kakakhel explained the mis-, dis-, and malinformation paradigms, equipping participants with verification techniques essential for discerning online truth from fiction. Notably, Mr. Kakakhel conducted his session in Pashto, fostering an inclusive environment for all participants and demonstrating how local language can be an effective tool for digital training.

The afternoon sessions focused on practical applications and strategies for parliamentarians to harness social media responsibly and effectively. In a hands-on exercise, participants engaged with real-time fact-checking tools under Mr. Kakakhel’s guidance, gaining practical skills to identify false information. Another interactive session on digital messaging provided insights into analyzing social media analytics, utilizing communication tools, and exploring innovative ways to connect with constituents.

In closing, participants expressed their appreciation for the sessions’ relevance and impact. The workshop concluded with networking opportunities, allowing attendees to discuss their experiences and insights on digital democracy. The collaboration between PIPS and UNDP was widely acknowledged as a valuable step toward a digitally aware and responsible parliamentary community in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

On the direction of the Chairman Senate/President PIPS Board of Governors, the Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services (PIPS), has implemented a comprehensive set of measures aimed at ensuring fiscal discipline, operational efficiency, and responsible utilization of public resources, on the same lines as notified and adopted by the Senate and National Assembly Secretariats.

Under the new measures, the Institute has adopted a four-day working week (Monday to Thursday), while introducing a hybrid working model whereby 50% of staff will perform duties from the office and 50% will work remotely on a rotational basis. Employees working from home will remain fully accessible through digital communication platforms and may be required to report to the office on short notice, ensuring uninterrupted institutional functioning.

Significant steps have also been taken to promote energy conservation. These include a target of achieving up to 70% reduction in energy consumption through minimizing unnecessary use of electricity and ensuring that official meetings, trainings, and events are scheduled during daylight hours. Foreign tours are banned and international meetings are being held virtually.

In the transport section, PIPS has introduced strict measures to curtail expenditure and 70% official vehicles have been grounded as part of this initiative.

As part of broader austerity efforts, 20% reduction has been imposed on the non-ERE budget for the fourth quarter of the current financial year. The officers drawing a monthly salary of PKR 300,000 or more, shall surrendered two days salary or 5% to 30% salary on gross as per Federal Government decision.

The Institute has also discontinued all non-essential procurements with immediate effect. Official functions such as dinners and receptions will not be hosted, except in the case of visiting foreign delegations, and even then, strictly in accordance with austerity protocols.

These measures have been implemented with immediate effect and will remain in force until further orders.

Under the guidance of President PIPS Board of Governors, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, PIPS remains fully committed to maintaining its core functions of parliamentary support, capacity building, and research while contributing proactively to national austerity and sustainability goals.

PIPS and UNDP Digital Democracy Workshop in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Emphasizes Combating Misinformation and Effective Social Media Strategies

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