Swabi: In a proactive step towards promoting transparency and accountability in governance, a comprehensive training session on Right to Information (RTI) was conducted at the University of Swabi. The training, organized by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Commission, aimed to equip Public Information Officers (PIOs) from various universities and selected colleges of Mardan Division with the knowledge and tools to effectively implement the Right to Information (RTI) Act.
Highlighting the global significance of RTI, Sayed Saadat Jahan, Deputy Director Communication of the KP Information Commission, emphasized that over 123 countries have embraced RTI as a fundamental human right endorsed by the United Nations. This legislation facilitates citizens’ easy access to government-held information, ultimately fostering transparency and combatting corruption, favoritism, and nepotism.
During the training, Syed Saadat Jahan provided an in-depth presentation on the KP RTI Act, elucidating the process of handling citizens’ requests for information. Stressing the importance of proper indexation of public information, Jahan underscored the role of PIOs in ensuring seamless access to information for citizens.
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Furthermore, participants proposed an impactful suggestion to enhance RTI awareness. They urged the commission to write a letter to the Secretary of Education, advocating for the installation of RTI awareness banners across educational institutions throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The training session reinforced the pivotal role of PIOs in upholding citizens’ right to information, fostering transparent governance, and paving the way for a more accountable and participatory society.
