BREAKING NEWS (Google-Sindh MoU Boosts Digital Journalism—September-3-2025):
Sindh’s government has formalized a partnership with Google by signing two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at advancing digital journalism and IT education. The MoUs were inked at a ceremony in Karachi on 3 September 2025, where Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah presided over the event. ARY NEWSThe Nation
Under the People’s IT Program (PITP-II), the province has allocated Rs 1.4 billion to train 35,000 students in 12 advanced technologies, with learners from matriculation to graduation eligible to participate. The training will be delivered through major institutions, including NED University, Mehran University, and Sukkur IBA. The CM highlighted the program’s success—over 4,300 graduates have already secured recognized IT skills, with strong female and rural engagement. The NationAaj English TV
The second MoU covers the Digital Journalism 2.0 initiative, a joint effort by the Sindh government and Tech Valley, supported by Google. This project offers 1,000 scholarships for journalists, government spokespersons, and media studies students, marking a key step toward enhancing digital journalism and promoting transparency in media. Sindh’s Information Minister, Sharjeel Memon, emphasized the initiative’s role in combating fake news and fostering responsible reporting. The NationARY NEWSMinute Mirror
The Sindh government’s partnership with Google marks a milestone in Pakistan’s growing digital transformation. By integrating training programs and scholarships, this collaboration aims to bridge the digital divide and empower both youth and professionals. Experts believe that initiatives like digital journalism training will not only improve media literacy but also strengthen democracy by ensuring authentic information reaches the public. International organizations have often stressed the need for fact-based reporting in developing countries, and this MoU aligns with those global goals.
In addition to scholarships for 1,000 journalists and media students, the project will provide specialized training in digital tools, including Google News Initiative resources. This ensures that participants can verify sources, analyze online data, and produce accurate stories. As digital journalism continues to replace traditional media practices, Pakistan’s young journalists are expected to gain a competitive edge in both local and global markets. (Google News Initiative)
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah highlighted that this step reflects Sindh’s long-term vision to create opportunities for its youth. With more than 35,000 IT students already enrolled in PITP-II, the new MoU expands the scope of digital skills beyond coding and software development to include journalism and information integrity. The government plans to integrate these courses into universities and colleges, ensuring that digital journalism is promoted as an essential subject alongside IT education.
Furthermore, the distribution of 5,000 Chromebooks under this program will enable students from underprivileged backgrounds to participate in online training without facing technical barriers. Sindh’s Information Minister, Sharjeel Memon, underlined that access to devices is crucial for sustainable progress in digital journalism. He stated that combating misinformation requires not just training but also equal access to technology, which this initiative directly supports. (ARY News)
The partnership between Sindh and Google has been welcomed by media houses and educational institutions alike. With the rapid spread of fake news through social platforms, digital journalism training is now seen as a necessity rather than an option. Observers argue that this project will prepare the next generation of journalists to adopt ethical practices, use data-driven tools, and maintain transparency in reporting. If successful, it could become a model for other provinces in Pakistan and even neighboring countries.
Quick Summary:
- Sindh government signed two MoUs with Google to promote IT education and digital journalism.
- Under PITP-II, Rs 1.4 billion will train 35,000 students in 12 advanced IT technologies.
- 1,000 scholarships will be provided to journalists, government spokespersons, and media students for digital journalism training.
- 5,000 Chromebooks will be distributed to support online learning for underprivileged students.
- Training will be offered at institutions including NED University, Mehran University, and Sukkur IBA.
- The Digital Journalism 2.0 initiative, supported by Google and Tech Valley, aims to fight misinformation and promote ethical reporting.
- Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah said the program builds on earlier IT initiatives with over 4,300 graduates already certified.
- Information Minister Sharjeel Memon stressed that digital journalism will help ensure transparency and combat fake news.
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