Dhaka:Prime Minister's Adviser on Information and Broadcasting Dr Zahed Ur Rahman has emphasized the critical need for enhancing media and digital literacy to effectively counter disinformation, misinformation, and misleading campaigns prevalent on social media platforms.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Zahed highlighted that laws alone are insufficient to tackle misinformation and disinformation, underscoring the necessity of public awareness. He stressed the importance of educating students, parents, and the elderly on verifying information, during a seminar at East West University in Dhaka, marking Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2026.
Dr Zahed described misinformation and intentionally misleading content as global challenges, not confined to Bangladesh. He noted the particular concern in Bangladesh where public awareness of media and digital literacy is significantly lacking. Consequently, the government plans to establish a legal framework to combat disinformation while simultaneously focusing on public education and awareness.
He pointed out the lack of media literacy among elderly social media users, who often cite Facebook as their news source without verification. This trend is not unique to Bangladesh but is observed globally. Dr Zahed also addressed the rising concerns related to artificial intelligence, with companies like Anthropic advocating for regulatory mechanisms. However, he warned that it might be too late for effective regulation.
Dr Zahed called for educational institutions to play a role in raising media and information literacy awareness, commending East West University for its initiative in observing MIL Week. He urged other universities to follow suit and encouraged students to educate their peers and family members on the importance of verifying information to prevent the spread of disinformation.
The seminar was presided over by East West University's Chairman and founding Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammed Farashuddin, with notable speakers including Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Ashik Mosaddik and UNESCO Representative Dr Susan Vize. Professor Dilara Begum also presented a research report during the event, attended by faculty deans, UNESCO representatives, teachers, and numerous students.