Saifullah Kohistani has become a prominent name in journalism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Emerging from the remote and underdeveloped region of Kohistan, he has carved a significant place for himself in the media industry through dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to truth-based journalism. From establishing Kohistan TV, the first digital news platform in the region, to anchoring on national television, producing high-quality documentaries, and excelling in sports journalism, his journey is truly inspirational.
A Digital Revolution: The Birth of Kohistan’s First Media Platform
In 2019, Saifullah Kohistani took a bold step by launching Kohistan TV, the first-ever digital media platform dedicated to highlighting the issues of his region. Before this, Kohistan had no active media presence, and its people were largely unaware of the power of journalism in bringing about change.
Through over 4,000 reports and video documentaries, he shed light on critical issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. His impactful reporting compelled the authorities to take action and address the concerns of the people.
Investigative Journalism on Major Development Projects
As Pakistan moved forward with the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha and Dasu Dams, Saifullah Kohistani stood out as a key journalist documenting these mega projects. While the government promised economic and energy benefits, there were concerns about displacement, environmental damage, and the socio-economic impact on local communities. Through extensive research and on-ground reporting, he presented a balanced perspective, ensuring that affected people’s voices reached policymakers.
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Excelling in Sports Journalism
Beyond news reporting, Saifullah Kohistani made a name for himself in sports journalism. He was a host for PSL 7’s transmission on Mashriq TV, earning widespread recognition across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Additionally, his role as media manager for the Kashmir Premier League’s SRG Group and later with Ghulami Hawks further strengthened his reputation as a versatile journalist covering both political and sports domains.
An Inspiration for Kohistan’s Youth
Saifullah Kohistani is not just a journalist; he is an influential mentor for the youth in Kohistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Having worked on national platforms such as Mashriq TV and collaborating with government institutions on awareness campaigns, he has demonstrated how journalism can be an agent of meaningful change.
He strongly believes that “Journalism is not just about reporting news; it is a powerful platform for real transformation.” His investigative reports and fact-based journalism have proven that a journalist can bridge the gap between the public and the government and push for reforms.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Saifullah Kohistani aims to further expand his reach and continue highlighting the issues of neglected regions like Kohistan on a national level. He envisions empowering local youth to step into journalism and create a strong media presence that represents the concerns of their communities.
Conclusion
From Kohistan’s remote valleys to the national media industry, Saifullah Kohistani’s journey is a story of determination, courage, and resilience. His relentless pursuit of truth and his efforts to give a voice to the unheard serve as an inspiration for young journalists and changemakers across Pakistan.
