The International Communication Association (ICA) 2025 Regional Hub at Forman Christian College University (FCCU) Lahore, launched today with an inspiring opening session, bringing together leading academics, journalists, and communication scholars to explore cutting-edge developments in global media and communication research.
The two-day conference, part of the ICA25HUBS global initiative, is being hosted by the Department of Mass Communication at FCCU. With the theme of Ideas, Innovation, and Inclusion, the event highlights the vital role of communication research in addressing contemporary media challenges, particularly in the Global South.
Senior FCCU officials inaugurated the event, including Dr Firasat Jabeen (Chairperson, Mass Communication), Dr Altaf Khan (Dean of Humanities), Dr Kausar Abdullah Malik (Dean of Postgraduate Studies), Dr Douglas E Trimble (Vice Rector), and Dr Jonathan S Addleton (Rector). Their addresses emphasized the evolving role of media and communication scholarship in today’s fast-changing information landscape.
Renowned journalist and public intellectual Raza Rumi delivered the keynote talk on “Consolidating Trust: The Importance of Communication Research in a Changing Media Landscape.” He stressed the need for evidence-based journalism to foster public trust and democratic engagement.
A highlight of the day was the engaging panel titled “Disrupting and Consolidating Communication Research: Voices of Pakistan,” moderated by Dr Firasat Jabeen. Featuring distinguished scholars Dr Altaf Ullah Khan, Dr Bushra H Rehman, Dr Anjum Zia, and Dr Serhish Mushtaq, the session explored the unique challenges and opportunities for Pakistani researchers within the broader global academic context.
The event also featured a virtual lecture by world-renowned communication theorist Prof Mohan Dutta of Massey University, New Zealand, titled “The Significance of Global South Voices in Communication Studies.” His presentation underlined the importance of inclusivity and decolonization in shaping global communication discourse.
In subsequent sessions, Dr Altaf Ullah Khan spoke on “From Theory to Practice” and explored how theoretical frameworks can inform journalistic practices. Dr Qurrat Liaqat captivated attendees with her session “Theory in Motion: The Role of Animation in Disrupting and Consolidating Communication Narratives.”
The day concluded with lively networking over refreshments, marked by vibrant discussions and enthusiastic participation from students and scholars alike.
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As the ICA 2025 Regional Hub in Lahore enters its second day tomorrow, participants can look forward to more thought-provoking presentations and collaborative exchanges aimed at reimagining the future of communication research.