By: SYED SHAHABUDDIN
A delegation of the Swat Press Club called on the Secretary of Information and Public Relations Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mr. Bakhtiar Khan, to congratulate him on assuming his new responsibilities. The delegation extended best wishes and expressed hope for strengthened collaboration between the provincial information department and local media.
The delegation was led by President, Swat Press Club Mr. Niaz Ahmad Khan. Other members included President, Swat Union of Journalists Mr. Syed Shahabuddin, General Secretary, Swat Press Club Mr. Shafiullah, and governing body member Mr. Fazal Rahim Khan.
During the meeting, the delegation apprised the Secretary of various challenges faced by journalists in Swat and Malakand Division, including financial constraints, lack of training opportunities, uneven distribution of government advertisements, and field safety concerns.
Secretary Bakhtiar Khan warmly welcomed the delegation and emphasized that journalism is a cornerstone of democracy and a vital bridge between the government and the public.
He reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to the welfare of journalists and stated that concrete steps are being taken to support their professional growth, safety, and capacity building.
He assured the delegation that district-level media issues, including transparency in ad distribution, provision of essential facilities, and organizing capacity-building workshops, would be prioritized.
The Secretary also noted that the Information Department is actively working to empower local press clubs institutionally and financially, aiming to make them self-reliant and sustainable.
He encouraged journalists to continue promoting responsible, fact-based, and constructive journalism.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with the delegation thanking the Secretary for his time, assurance of support, and keen interest in resolving journalists’ concerns.
