Hossainpur: State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Choudhury today urged journalists to be more aware and responsible in preventing misinformation, rumours, and misleading artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content circulating on social media. "Journalists must certainly highlight any mistakes or shortcomings of the government. But this should not be done through propaganda or misinformation. Training initiatives have been taken across the country to enhance journalists' skills in AI, fact-checking and misinformation," he said.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the state minister made these remarks as the chief guest at a certificate distribution ceremony after a three-day training workshop on multimedia journalism, fact-checking, and artificial intelligence (AI) for journalists at Asaduzzaman Khan Auditorium in Hossainpur Upazila. Yasser emphasized that the primary goal of the training is to develop journalists' skills in fact-checking, disinformation, and misinformation, highlighting their vital role in curbing the spread of false information.
Yasser pointed out the pervasive issue of propaganda targeting well-known figures and ordinary citizens alike in Bangladesh. He addressed the problem of individuals falsely identifying as journalists to spread misinformation and the misuse of AI in distorting images and videos, which tarnishes the reputation of genuine journalists. To combat this, the government is facilitating opportunities for genuine journalists to undergo a two-year master's course, AI-based journalism training, and other capacity-building programmes.
Lists of verified journalists will be compiled through press clubs, who will then be included in training programmes in phases. The state minister also mentioned the ongoing efforts to increase support for journalists through the Journalist Welfare Trust, with an application already submitted to the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Finance.
The training initiatives have already been rolled out in Mymensingh division, Bogura, Feni, and various districts around Dhaka, with plans for nationwide expansion. Yasser assured that while ambitious promises won't be made, efforts are focused on advancing Bangladesh towards a better future. He iterated that journalists must carry out fact-based and responsible journalism to hold the government accountable.
Regarding press freedom, Yasser affirmed that the current media freedom under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership will persist. He urged journalists to remain vigilant against any resurgence of fascism that could undermine the state's stability and democratic progress.
The event was attended by notable figures including Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB) Director General Faruk Wasif, Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime and Operations) Mukit Sarker, and Hossainpur Upazila Nirbahi Officer Rexona Khatun.