National University Vice-Chancellor ASM Amanullah has said misinformation and fake news could create chaos in society, stressing the need for independent, investigative and responsible journalism.
Speaking at the orientation of a three-month certificate course on journalism at the Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB) in Dhaka on Saturday, Amanullah said the media was a mirror of society and a cornerstone of democracy, said a press release.
“In the age of information technology, maintaining objectivity and truth in news dissemination is more challenging than ever,” he said. “Amid the flood of misinformation and fake news, journalists must play independent, investigative and responsible roles to deliver accurate information to the public.”
He said accurate and objective journalism could guide society in the right direction, while false information or rumours could create chaos in an instant.
The VC stressed the need for regular training to maintain journalistic standards, verify information and ensure accountability.
“In the era of artificial intelligence, new challenges have emerged for journalism. To tackle these challenges, journalists must continuously acquire new technology and knowledge,” he said.
Turning to NU’s academic activities, VC Amanullah said session jams would be eliminated from all courses by June 2027.
“We have been working to overhaul the university since taking charge,” he said. “World-class skills-based courses have been introduced, syllabuses modernised, and memoranda of understanding signed with leading global universities and development organisations for educational improvement.”
NU VC said the traditional syllabus was being redesigned to make it contemporary, skills-based and internationally standard, preparing students for the job market.
Under the ‘Learning with Happiness’ programme, various initiatives had been taken nationwide to ensure students’ mental development and a joyful learning environment. Efforts were also underway to establish a ‘Performing Arts College’ to develop students’ creativity and leadership skills.
PIB Director General Faruk Wasif praised Amanullah’s leadership, saying the institute’s long-standing session jams had begun to ease since he took charge.
PIB Associate Professor Monira Sharmin conducted the programme. Trainees, coordinators, senior officials and invited guests attended.
