Karachi: Maintaining a balance in social media use has become increasingly important in Pakistani society, as excessive use can contribute to loneliness, mental stress, sleep deprivation, anxiety, and other health concerns, Dr. Farhana Owais said during a workshop at the University of Karachi.
Dr. Farhana Owais, a senior producer, anchorperson, research scholar, and member of the Pakistan–United States Alumni Network, expressed these views while addressing a hybrid workshop titled “Balanced Use of Social Media” at the Latif Ebrahim Jamal (LEJ) National Science Information Centre, University of Karachi. She also noted that sixth-sense technology could become accessible to the general public in the near future.
The workshop was jointly organised by the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi, and the UNESCO Chair in Medicinal and Bio-organic Natural Product Chemistry based at the centre.
ICCBS Director Professor Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah delivered the opening remarks and welcomed the guest speaker. He observed that social media has contributed to several problems, but its appropriate use can also help people benefit from the opportunities offered by modern technology.
Dr. Farhana Owais stressed that maintaining a healthy balance in social media use is essential to addressing the problems associated with excessive screen time. She encouraged users to reduce the amount of time they spend on social media platforms each day.
She also discussed the concept of the “attention economy,” under which social media platforms compete to keep users engaged for as long as possible. This prolonged engagement generates financial benefits for platforms, while users’ attention becomes a valuable resource that can be monetised.
However, excessive and unbalanced use can negatively affect users’ physical health, mental well-being, and social relationships. Developing healthier digital habits and managing screen time can help reduce these risks.
A large number of faculty members and students from the Department of Mass Communication attended the workshop. At the conclusion of the programme, organiser Nadeem Ahmed Khan thanked the guest speaker and participants.
The workshop highlighted the importance of responsible social media use and encouraged people to make more conscious choices about their digital habits.
