The origins of the Communication and Journalism Educators’ Network (CJEN) Bangladesh can be traced to the DW Akademie project titled “Media Development in Rural Areas: Supporting Community Radios and Journalism Education in Bangladesh.” This initiative aimed to professionalize the journalism sector so it could more effectively serve its dual roles—as a watchdog of democracy and a facilitator of public dialogue. More specifically, the project sought to enhance journalism education at the University of Rajshahi and the University of Chittagong.

In its 2017 External Evaluation Report, the project’s evaluators recommended moving beyond the pilot phase, which had been limited to just two universities. They called for an expansion to include other regional institutions, the integration of practice-oriented education, the establishment of a national network of journalism departments, and stronger engagement with practicing journalists from both public and private media sectors.

In response to these recommendations, the University of Rajshahi hosted a national networking conference in February 2018, bringing together heads of journalism schools from across the country. Following a workshop led by DW Akademie Policy and Concept Expert Udo Prenzel, participants resolved to establish a formal network—the Communication and Journalism Educators’ Network (CJEN) Bangladesh.

The second networking conference was held at the University of Chittagong in November 2018. During this event, the following academics were appointed to draft the association’s constitution:

• Gayen Kaberi (University of Dhaka)
• Jude William Genilo (University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh)
• Zahangir Kabir (Manarat International University)
• Sharifa Umma Shirina (University of Barishal)
• Mashihur Rahman (University of Rajshahi)
• Mohammad Sahid Ullah (University of Chittagong)
• Mahmuda Sikder (University of Chittagong)

Subsequent conferences helped expand and consolidate CJEN’s vision and mission. The third conference, held in February 2020 at Comilla University, focused on enhancing the practice-oriented dimension of journalism education. The fourth conference, hosted by Jahangirnagar University in August 2021, examined the evolving role of media educators during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In May 2022, the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh convened the fifth networking conference, which served as a sector-wide self-assessment. Participants critically examined the strengths and weaknesses of journalism education in light of a rapidly transforming media landscape.

The sixth to ninth conferences followed in quick succession:

• Khulna University (December 2022)
• University of Barishal (June 2023)
• Daffodil International University (October 2023)
• North South University (2024)

In 2024, an executive committee was established to formulate the CJEN Bangladesh Strategic Development Plan (2025–2030). The committee conducted ten online meetings and held one culminating in-person session to finalize the document, marking a significant step toward institutional sustainability and long-term impact.

Together, these gatherings have helped shape CJEN into a vibrant, inclusive platform for collaboration, reflection, and innovation in journalism and communication education across Bangladesh.

CJEN Bangladesh is committed to advancing innovative and responsible journalism and communication education by building a sustainable network of academics, fostering industry-academia collaboration, and promoting research-driven curriculum development. Through capacity building, resource sharing, and advocacy, we empower educators and institutions to nurture forward-thinking media experts, ensuring they are equipped to contribute to an inclusive, ethical, and dynamic media landscape.