The Centre for Excellence in Journalism was set up in 2014 under a grant from the US State Department with the intention to set up a state-of-the-art training center to be used by journalists and journalism students. The four partners in this project were the US state department (funder), the International Centre for Journalists (ICFJ), Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, Chicago and the Institute of Business Administration (IBA), Karachi.
Our mission is to promote ethical practices in Pakistani media; to educate journalists new modes and techniques prevailing across the world; and elevate the standards of journalism in Pakistan by providing skill-based training to journos.
The mission of the CEJ, established in 2014, is to elevate the standards of journalism through comprehensive training workshops, impactful fellowships, prestigious awards, and an esteemed graduate program in journalism. With a robust network comprising over five thousand journalists nationwide, the CEJ serves as a dynamic hub that offers unparalleled opportunities for learning, innovation, and networking. Positioned at the intersection of academia and the journalism industry, the CEJ is dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence, empowerment, and collaboration within the field, thereby shaping the future of journalism in Pakistan.
The CEJ envisions a future where journalism in Pakistan thrives as a beacon of truth, innovation, and societal impact. We aspire to be a catalyst for transformative change in the media landscape, fostering a generation of journalists equipped with cutting-edge skills, unwavering integrity, and a profound commitment to shaping a more informed, connected, and empowered society. Through dynamic education, collaborative partnerships, and a steadfast dedication to excellence, the CEJ aims to be a driving force in propelling journalism forward, contributing to a resilient and vibrant media ecosystem that serves the public interest.
At the CEJ, our values form the cornerstone of our commitment to advancing journalism in Pakistan. We embrace:
Excellence: We strive for the highest standards in journalism education, professional development, and industry engagement, fostering a culture of excellence that empowers journalists to thrive.
Innovation: We encourage a spirit of innovation, equipping journalists with the skills and mindset to adapt to evolving media landscapes and contribute to the advancement of the field.
Diversity and Inclusion: We celebrate diversity in all its forms, creating an inclusive environment that welcomes individuals from varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, ensuring a rich and dynamic learning and working environment.
Integrity: We uphold the principles of journalistic integrity, ethical conduct, and accountability, instilling these values in our programs and participants to build a foundation of trust in the media.
Collaboration: We foster collaboration between academia and the journalism industry, promoting a synergistic relationship that enhances the learning experience, encourages knowledge sharing, and contributes to the overall growth of journalism.
Professionalism: We instill a strong sense of professionalism in our participants, emphasizing the importance of responsible journalism, unbiased reporting, and adherence to ethical standards.
Community: We cultivate a supportive and vibrant community of journalists, alumni, mentors, and partners, creating lasting connections that extend beyond the CEJ experience, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.