The MediaVerse platform at the Department of Mass Communication, University of Karachi, organized Verse ’26, bringing together personalities from media, politics, business and education for discussions on maintaining balance amid uncertainty. Held at the Professor Salimuzzaman Siddiqui Auditorium at the university’s International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, the event was organized under the theme “Balance Amid Chaos.” The programme explored how awareness, positive thinking and clarity of thought can help people respond to changing circumstances. It also provided students with an opportunity to engage with professionals from different fields and examine contemporary social and digital challenges beyond the classroom. The event highlighted the role of university-led initiatives in connecting academic learning with discussions about media, society and everyday life.
Former federal finance minister Asad Umar was among the prominent speakers and encouraged young people to view chaos as an opportunity to identify new possibilities rather than something they must always seek to control. He also discussed the effects of extensive digital engagement, observing that people increasingly maintain distinct online identities alongside their lives outside social media. This separation can add complexity to how individuals present themselves, interact with others and understand their experiences. The discussion invited students to consider how digital platforms influence perceptions and personal choices, particularly in an environment where information circulates rapidly. Umar’s remarks placed emphasis on recognizing uncertainty and responding thoughtfully instead of allowing it to dictate decisions.
The programme also featured a panel discussion moderated by Rabia Mugni, founder of Fuchsia Magazine. Participants included director and actor Saife Hassan, actor Ali Khan, content creator Usama Nasir and Asad Umar. The discussion examined how awareness, clarity of thought and a balanced outlook can help individuals make decisions in uncertain situations. Usama Nasir shared perspectives on managing the relationship between an online persona and personal life, highlighting the importance of maintaining boundaries between digital presence and private experiences. The event also featured contributions from University of Karachi faculty members. Professor Dr Muhammad Haris Shoaib, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, spoke about the volume of information and visual content circulated through digital media, noting the importance of accurate knowledge and constructive communication. He highlighted how purposeful and calming content can contribute to more positive digital engagement.
The event also underscored student participation, creativity and accessibility. Professor Dr Sadia Mahmood, Chairperson of the Department of Mass Communication, recognized the voluntary efforts and diverse perspectives of students involved in MediaVerse. Creative Advisor Waqar Hussain highlighted the platform’s role in developing students’ professional and creative skills while engaging with community issues. Verse ’26 also included the launch of the third issue of the MediaVerse magazine, connecting the event with the platform’s broader media and storytelling activities. In collaboration with ConnectHear and CODA Pakistan, sign-language interpretation was provided to make the programme more accessible to deaf participants. By bringing together speakers from different professional backgrounds, student-led media activities and inclusive participation, Verse ’26 offered a forum to discuss the relationship between digital identity, information consumption and personal balance in an increasingly connected society.
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