Deputy Speaker of the National Parliament Barrister Kaiser Kamal on Wednesday urged journalists to uphold professional ethics and play a constructive role in building a "new Bangladesh," describing them as the conscience of the nation.
He made the remarks while inaugurating a three-day training programme on AI and Fact-Checking, organised by the Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB) in Durgapur, Netrokona.
Addressing the participants as the chief guest, Kaiser Kamal said journalism is a noble profession and called on reporters to avoid yellow journalism while holding public representatives accountable.
"No one is above mistakes. Point out my shortcomings as well so that I can correct them," he said, adding that journalists should work with integrity and contribute to the country's development.
PIB Director General Faruq Wasif said the rapid growth of information had also increased the risk of misinformation, making verification an essential responsibility for journalists.
He said while artificial intelligence offers new opportunities for journalism, its use must be guided by ethics and responsibility.
"Mastering fact-checking skills will enable journalists to produce more accurate and credible reports," he said.
According to PIB, the training programme aims to promote the ethical and effective use of digital technology, artificial intelligence, fact-checking and multimedia journalism. It seeks to help journalists produce reliable, data-driven and reader-friendly news while understanding the opportunities and limitations of AI.
Among those present at the inaugural session were Netrokona Deputy Commissioner Md Mushfiqur Rahman, Superintendent of Police Tarikul Islam, Durgapur Upazila Nirbahi Officer Ahmed Sadat, Tribal Cultural Academy Director Anjan Kumar Chicham and trainer Ali Akbar. The programme was moderated by PIB trainer Sahanawar Sayeed Shahin.
A total of 35 journalists from print and electronic media in Durgapur Upazila are participating in the workshop, which will conclude on July 24 with the distribution of certificates.
