The Pakistan Information Commission (PIC), in collaboration with Transparency International Pakistan (TI Pakistan), organized a comprehensive training program for Public Information Officers (PIOs) on proactive disclosure under Section 5 of the Right of Access to Information Act 2017 (RTI Act 2017).
Held at local hotel of Islamabad, the training was aimed to enhance awareness and strengthen the capacity of PIOs to effectively implement proactive disclosure provisions, ensuring greater transparency and accountability within the federal government.
The training brought together designated PIOs from various federal government departments, providing them with a thorough understanding of the key elements of proactive disclosure as outlined in the RTI Act 2017.
Through interactive sessions and presentations, participants gained valuable insights into the legal framework, procedures, and best practices for proactive disclosure, empowering them to fulfill their obligations under the RTI Act 2017.
A panel of distinguished speakers, including Advocate Daniyal Muzaffar, Legal Advisor, Board of Trustee, TI Pakistan; Mr. Shoaib Ahmed Siddiqui, Chief Information Commissioner, Pakistan Information Commission; Mr. Kashif Ali, Executive Director, TI Pakistan; Mr. Mukhtar Ahmed Ali, Executive Director, Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives and former Commissioner, Punjab Information Commission; Mr. Muhammad Azam, former Chief Information Commissioner, Pakistan Information Commission; and Director General (IP), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, shared their expertise on various aspects of the RTI Act 2017, specifically focusing on proactive disclosure requirements and implementation strategies.
The training emphasized the importance of proactive disclosure in promoting transparency and accountability within government institutions. By proactively publishing information of public interest, government bodies can enhance citizens’ access to information, foster trust and confidence, and strengthen public participation in decision-making processes.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Shoaib Ahmed Siddiqui, Chief Information Commissioner, Pakistan Information Commission, underscored the significance of the training program in empowering PIOs to become effective champions of proactive disclosure.
He expressed confidence that the enhanced knowledge and skills gained by PIOs would contribute to a more transparent and accountable federal government, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Pakistan.
