Former squash legend Qamar Zaman calls for media integrity amid AI and social media challenges
Squash legend Qamar Zaman posing with the executive committee of the Pakistan Sports Writers Federation (Photo by Ehtisham Ur Rehman)
PESHAWAR, August 19, 2024 - Former world squash champion Qamar Zaman emphasized Pakistan's remarkable 37-year dominance in the world of squash, during which seven players achieved the prestigious title of world champion. He expressed concern that social media has shifted players' focus away from the game, drawing them into excessive use of mobile phones. Zaman shared these views while addressing the executive committee meeting of the Pakistan Sports Writers Federation in Peshawar.
REIGNITING INTEREST Discussing the success of Arshad Nadeem at the Paris Olympics, Zaman highlighted how it has reignited interest in javelin throw among both athletes and the public. He pointed out that when athletes succeed in any sport, it not only brings them personal recognition but also boosts the sport’s popularity nationwide.
CRITICAL ROLE Zaman strongly emphasized the media's critical role in the development of sports, particularly in the current digital age. He acknowledged that while social media has largely supplanted traditional print and electronic media, it comes with significant challenges, especially the spread of fake news. Zaman warned that fake news is not just a nuisance but a serious issue that can tarnish the reputations of athletes, disrupt their careers and harm the integrity of sports. He urged journalists and media outlets to engage in positive and responsible reporting, ensuring that information shared is accurate and beneficial to the sports community.
Squash legend Qamar Zaman (L) addressing the executive committee of the Pakistan Sports Writers Federation. PSWF President Amjad Aziz Malik (R) (Photo: Ehtisham Ur Rehman)
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Furthermore, Zaman addressed the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism and sports reporting. He highlighted the need for sports journalists to adapt to modern technologies and leverage AI to enhance their reporting capabilities. According to Zaman, AI offers tools that can help in fact-checking, data analysis, and personalized content delivery, which are essential for maintaining high standards of journalism in the fast-paced digital era. However, he also cautioned that AI should be used responsibly, ensuring that it complements human judgment rather than replacing it.
AIPS CENTENNIAL Recognizing the 100th anniversary of AIPS as a significant milestone, Zaman praised the organization for its role in providing a global platform for sports journalists to improve their efficiency and exchange ideas on various important issues. He welcomed the committee's meeting, emphasizing the importance of such gatherings in advancing the standards of sports journalism in Pakistan.
REIGNITING INTEREST Discussing the success of Arshad Nadeem at the Paris Olympics, Zaman highlighted how it has reignited interest in javelin throw among both athletes and the public. He pointed out that when athletes succeed in any sport, it not only brings them personal recognition but also boosts the sport’s popularity nationwide.
CRITICAL ROLE Zaman strongly emphasized the media's critical role in the development of sports, particularly in the current digital age. He acknowledged that while social media has largely supplanted traditional print and electronic media, it comes with significant challenges, especially the spread of fake news. Zaman warned that fake news is not just a nuisance but a serious issue that can tarnish the reputations of athletes, disrupt their careers and harm the integrity of sports. He urged journalists and media outlets to engage in positive and responsible reporting, ensuring that information shared is accurate and beneficial to the sports community.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Furthermore, Zaman addressed the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism and sports reporting. He highlighted the need for sports journalists to adapt to modern technologies and leverage AI to enhance their reporting capabilities. According to Zaman, AI offers tools that can help in fact-checking, data analysis, and personalized content delivery, which are essential for maintaining high standards of journalism in the fast-paced digital era. However, he also cautioned that AI should be used responsibly, ensuring that it complements human judgment rather than replacing it.
AIPS CENTENNIAL Recognizing the 100th anniversary of AIPS as a significant milestone, Zaman praised the organization for its role in providing a global platform for sports journalists to improve their efficiency and exchange ideas on various important issues. He welcomed the committee's meeting, emphasizing the importance of such gatherings in advancing the standards of sports journalism in Pakistan.
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