Pakistan Network for Science Communication (PNSC)
The PNSC will work to support effective science communication and evidence-based science journalism to improve information integrity in the country.
The community of science practitioners in Pakistan is diverse and expanding. In recent years, it has gained a more visible place in national development and on the reforms agenda in the backdrop of increasing technology use and digitalisation.
Despite this, our recent research indicates that science communication by scientific organisations and science academia, as well as science journalism by both conventional and digital media are areas of practice with major shortcomings.
To resolve these shortcomings, support is needed to develop greater professionalism among the stakeholders of science communication. The support can improve public understanding of science and its role in developing societies, use science-based communication to tackle vulnerabilities to misinformation and superstition, strengthen opportunities for evidence-based policymaking, stimulate youth engagement in science and promote awareness of local scientific research, developments and achievements of Pakistani scientists.
In light of the findings and recommendations of the report, it was concluded that without coordinated, multi-sectoral action, science communication in Pakistan will remain fragmented and ineffective. A multi-stakeholder alliance is the strategic solution to bridge gaps, promote collaboration and ensure that science communication and science journalism serve the public interest, strengthen society and drive national progress. This is the origin of the Pakistan Network for Science Communication (PNSC).
Representatives of committed stakeholders at a national consultation on the findings and recommendations of the report “Information Integrity, Rationalist Media and Public Interest Discourse: Mapping and Analysing Science Communication and Science Journalism Practices in Pakistan,” launched at the Department of Digital Media of the University of the Punjab, in Lahore on November 12, 2025, agreed to establish the PNSC with the following objectives.
PNSC Objectives
PNSC will:
1. Unite diverse actors (science organizations, academia, media, policymakers, and civil society) to address systemic weaknesses collaboratively.
2. Institutionalize science communication as a priority and a professional function, ensuring that both the quantity and quality of science content are improved.
3. Build resilience against misinformation by strengthening information integrity and rational media including capacity building for content creators, relevant public relations officers and faculty.
4. Empower journalists and content creators with access to scientific expertise and locally relevant stories.
5. Promote evidence-based policymaking and a culture of scientific literacy, supporting national development.
6. Ensure long-term sustainability through international partnerships and science-centric initiatives.
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