Experts to discuss digital media's psychological impact on young people at CreateCon 2026, promoting healthier online ecosystems and responsible digital innovation.
The city of Karachi is set to host a major symposium that will delve into the complex relationship between media consumption, creativity, and mental wellbeing, particularly among young people. CreateCon 2026, scheduled to take place on May 15, 2026, at Salim Habib University, will bring together a diverse group of educators, media professionals, creative leaders, researchers, and mental health advocates to examine the impact of rapidly evolving digital environments on the emotional, cognitive, and social development of today's youth.
The event, organized by the Center for AI Digital Arts & Creative Design, aims to promote dialogue between the creative industry and public health stakeholders at a time when excessive screen exposure, algorithm-driven content, and digital dependency are becoming increasingly concerning. According to Prof. Dr. Jamshed Butt, Director of CADC, the influence of media on society extends beyond information, shaping the environment in which young people grow and develop. The symposium will explore how digital storytelling, media design, artificial intelligence, and online engagement can be shaped more responsibly to support healthier psychological outcomes for younger generations.
CreateCon 2026 is a call to action for designers, educators, and health professionals to collaborate on creating a healthier digital future. The event comes amid rising international concern over the impact of social media pressure, digital overstimulation, cyberbullying, online addiction, and misinformation on youth mental health. Experts worldwide have increasingly called for collaborative approaches involving educators, technology developers, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and media creators to address these concerns. Consultant Talib Haider emphasized that the broader "Mind The Screen" initiative seeks to encourage meaningful conversations around mental health awareness in Pakistan, promoting a better tomorrow for the country's youth.
The symposium will also highlight the growing role of ethical media practices and responsible digital innovation in shaping healthier online ecosystems, particularly for younger audiences navigating social platforms and AI-driven content environments. By bringing together experts from various fields, CreateCon 2026 aims to foster a deeper understanding of the complex issues surrounding digital media and youth mental health, ultimately contributing to the development of more responsible and supportive digital environments. As the world grapples with the challenges posed by digital media, events like CreateCon 2026 serve as a crucial step towards promoting healthier digital habits and supporting the wellbeing of future generations.
