Professor Jude William Genilo, Pro Vice Chancellor and Professor of Journalism, Media Studies and Communication at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB), has been appointed to the Global Reference Group (GRG) of DW Akademie, the international media development organisation of Deutsche Welle, the university said in a press release. The advisory group, established in 2024, comprises 12 media and development experts and provides independent guidance on emerging challenges and opportunities in the global media landscape.
Professor Genilo received the appointment through an invitation from Carsten von Nahmen, Managing Director of DW Akademie, in recognition of his extensive experience in journalism education, media development, strategic communication, digital inclusion, and media and information literacy. His one-year term begins in June 2026 and includes participation in annual in-person consultations and virtual meetings, offering strategic advice while remaining independent from DW Akademie’s management.
The inaugural consultation workshop will be held in Bonn, Germany, in late June, bringing together experts from Africa, Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East to discuss media sustainability, digital transformation, journalism challenges, and democratic communication. Professor Genilo will also attend the Global Media Forum, convened annually by Deutsche Welle, to engage with journalists, media leaders, policymakers, academics, civil society representatives, and technology experts.
Speaking about the appointment, Professor Genilo said in a press statement, “Media development today requires genuine dialogue across regions, cultures, and contexts. I am honoured to contribute to DW Akademie’s efforts to build more inclusive, responsive, and effective approaches to supporting independent media, freedom of expression, and access to quality information worldwide.”
DW Akademie said the GRG reflects its commitment to continuous learning, inclusive decision-making, and ensuring that perspectives from partner organisations and experts from the Global South are incorporated into strategic planning. The appointment strengthens ULAB’s engagement with international networks promoting media development, communication rights, and democratic participation, while highlighting the role of Bangladeshi scholars in global discussions on journalism, media innovation, and social change.
