Mind the Screen: Youth, Media and Mental Health Symposium

The Center for AI Digital Arts & Creative Design at Salim Habib University organized the Mind the Screen: Youth, Media and Mental Health Symposium, under the theme Nurturing Healthy Minds to Lead a Better Pakistan, on Friday, May 15, 2026.

The event aimed to discuss the growing influence of digital media on youth well-being and the collective responsibility to shape healthier digital environments. Through insightful and thought-provoking panel discussions on mental healthcare, news media, and entertainment, the symposium brought together renowned mental health experts, media professionals, journalists, academicians, and creative practitioners namely, Ms. Alizeh Valjee, Co-Founder & COO, Saaya Health, Ms. Rahal Saeed, CEO, Karvan-e-Hayat, Ms. Amna Naved, Clinical Psychologist & Project Manager, Savaira, Ms. Zahra Sarmad, Clinical Psychologist & Mental Health Program Lead, IRD, Mr. Masood Raza, Senior News Host & Journalist, Ms. Noreen Shams, Journalist & Podcast Host, Mr. Wajih Sani, Senior Presenter & Host, Geo News, Mr. Omair Alavi, Senior Entertainment Journalist, Mr. Mohsin Talat, Director & Producer, and Ms. Rida Bilal, Drama Writer and explored the evolving role of different media platforms in shaping youth perspectives, emotional well-being, and social behavior. Mr. Talib Haider’s thoughtful moderation further added depth to the discussion.

Notably present from SHU were Prof. Dr. Irfan Hyder, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Muhammad Hussain Habib, Registrar, Prof. Dr. Jamshed Butt, Director, Center for AI Digital Arts & Creative Design, Deans of Faculties, Chairpersons, Directors, and Heads of Departments, along with other faculty and staff members.