A one-day workshop titled “Inclusive Democratic Participation and Digital Security” for the students of Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur
, was held on Wednesday in collaboration with the Election Commission of Pakistan and the university, with financial support from the European Union. Students of Shah Abdul Latif University participated in a one-day workshop on inclusive democratic participation and digital security, which included a hands-on mock polling exercise.
The initiative was a joint venture between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Election Commission of Pakistan, and the university, aimed at fostering democratic awareness among youth, and was financially supported by the European Union.
Presiding over the event, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Wahid Bakhsh Jatoi praised the enthusiastic participation of the students. “I was very pleased that the students were participating with enthusiasm,” he said, expressing confidence that the session provided valuable insights into the voting process and would help participants become future leaders who strengthen democracy.
Dr. Jatoi urged the students to act as ambassadors of civic duty and to disseminate their newly acquired knowledge to others. “You should now also inform others about the importance of voting – it is a wonderful experience,” he said, adding that every citizen should be well-informed about the electoral structure.
A key feature of the training was a mock polling demonstration on the university grounds. Led by Election Commission Master Trainer Siddique Bhayo, along with Professors Aman Mangi, Shafique Wassan, Shabana Rajput, and Deepa Kumari, this practical exercise provided students with a tangible, hands-on experience of the voting procedure.
Throughout the day, participants were given detailed briefings on the complete electoral process and the crucial role of digital security in the modern world. These sessions were conducted by UNDP expert Muhammad Qasim Janjua and Election Commission representative Naeem-ur-Rehman.
A large number of students attended the program, which was successfully facilitated by the Focal Person for Student Affairs, Professor Dr. Nazar Hussain Phulpoto, who ensured the smooth conduct of the training.