The US Ambassador David Hale and IBA Director Ishrat Hussain launched the Center for Excellence in Journalism (CEJ) at Karachi’s Institute of Business Administration (IBA) earlier today (Saturday.)
The US State Department provided $4 million in funding to construct the center and establish a curriculum and training programs.
At the launching ceremony, US envoy Hale said, “A free and professional press is a cornerstone of democracy and played a crucial role in America’s history.”
“This center aims to help journalists gain and improve their skills so they can play their indispensable role in the public discourse of their country.”
The CEJ will become the nexus of US government and partner organization efforts to provide training and exchanges for Pakistani journalists to advance a free, dynamic press.
Consul General Brian Heath, CEJ Board Chairperson Kamal Siddiqui, CEJ Acting Director Christie-Marie Lauder, International Center for Journalists Vice President Patrick Butler, Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism Professor Craig Duff and State Department consultant Larry Pintak also attended the ceremony.
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