Dhaka:A special exhibition titled 'No Viral, No Speed A Festival of Slow Journalism by Students' commenced Tuesday evening at the DrikPath Bhaban in the capital. The exhibition aims to underscore the significance of investigative, evidence-based, and responsible journalism.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the exhibition spans the second and eighth levels of the DrikPath Bhaban, featuring works by 30 students from the journalism departments of Khulna University, Central Women's University, and the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB). Prominent figures attending the inaugural event included Drik Managing Director and photographer Dr. Shahidul Alam, Central Women's University Vice Chancellor Dr. Parveen Hasan, and lecturer Kazi Nafia Rahman. Other notable guests were Prof Dr. Deen M Sumon Rahman, Dean of the ULAB School of Social Science, Associate Professor Dr. Sarkar Barbaq Quarmal, Khulna University Associate Professor Sara Monami Hossain, and Assistant Professor Md Shamim Hossain. The ceremony was moderated by Drik researcher Samia Rahman Preema.
Dr. Shahidul Alam, in his welcome speech, commended the students' contributions and expressed hope that their work would embody the principles of slow journalism as they venture into professional media careers. Faculty members from the participating universities also expressed their dedication to continuing collaboration with Drik to enhance journalism education standards.
Organizers of the exhibition pointed out that in an era dominated by breaking news, rapid content production, and clickbait culture, traditional journalistic values, ethics, and standards face challenges. Slow journalism offers a crucial alternative by emphasizing in-depth research, fact-checking, and nuanced storytelling.
Drik initiated this educational program to encourage students to think beyond conventional news delivery formats. Through various mediums, including writing, photography, audio-visuals, and crafting, students explored social, cultural, political, and economic issues, focusing on public interest, nature, and the environment.
Curated by ASM Rezaur Rahman, the exhibition showcases these experimental projects and will remain open to the public daily from 3 PM to 8 PM until November 7.