KARACHI, Feb 27 (DNA): American Ambassador David Hale and IBA Director Ishrat Hussain launched the Center for Excellence in Journalism (CEJ) at Karachi’s Institute of Business Administration (IBA) on Saturday.The U.S. State Department provided $4 million in funding to construct the center and establish a curriculum and training programs.“A free and professional press is a cornerstone of democracy and played a crucial role in America’s history,” said Ambassador Hale.

“This center Center for Excellence in Journalism 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 U.S. 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 Institute of Business Administration has long been at the forefront of innovation in education and I am very pleased to add yet another component to that prestigious portfolio with the launch of the Center for Excellence in Journalism,” said Dr. Ishrat. “Today, we bring that excellence to journalism and multimedia studies.

We expect the Center for Excellence in Journalism to attract the best and brightest journalism and multimedia professionals,” he said. DNA
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