RISJA Celebrates World Sports Journalists Day with Renewed Commitment to Ethical Reporting

RISJA Leaders Highlight Role of Sports Journalists in Nation Building

By DTD- On Jul 2, 2025

ISLAMABAD – The Rawalpindi-Islamabad Sports Journalists Association (RISJA) marked World Sports Journalists Day on July 2, 2025, with a vibrant ceremony that honored veteran sports journalists and reaffirmed the profession’s critical role in promoting fair, ethical, and impactful sports coverage in Pakistan.

Held at a local hotel, the event brought together senior sports reporters, athletes, and representatives from the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA), Islamabad Olympic Association (IOA), and various national sports federations. The gathering paid rich tributes to long-serving sports journalists for their contributions, while encouraging young professionals to uphold journalistic integrity and the spirit of fair play.

Addressing the audience, RISJA Patron Abdul Mohi Shah, Chairman Shakeel Awan, and President Abubakar Bin Tallat highlighted the responsibility sports journalists bear in shaping public opinion and national identity. “This day reminds us of the important role sports journalists play — not just in covering competitions, but in upholding the spirit of sportsmanship and inspiring future generations,” they said.

The celebration featured a cake-cutting ceremony and a panel discussion focused on the challenges and opportunities facing sports journalism in the digital age. Panelists emphasized adapting to new platforms while maintaining journalistic standards.

Adding prestige to the event, the Pakistan Olympic Association issued a special message recognizing the sports media community. POA President Arif Saeed and Secretary General Muhammad Khalid Mahmood expressed heartfelt appreciation for journalists’ unwavering service to the Olympic Movement.

“Your voices shape not only public perception but also national pride and aspiration,” said POA Secretary General Khalid Mahmood. “We remain committed to working alongside you in fostering a sporting culture that is ethical, inspiring, and worthy of our athletes and youth.”

The event concluded with a collective pledge by RISJA members to continue supporting athletes and sports development through responsible and dedicated journalism.