9th CJEN Conference Concludes at North South University

The 9th CJEN Bangladesh Networking Conference concluded on November 29, 2023 at North South University (NSU), bringing together leading academics, journalists, and media professionals to explore transformative approaches to journalism education in the evolving media landscape.  The two-day conference, themed “Breaking Boundaries: Generation-Z, Digital Transformation, and New Journalism Education Approaches,” was organized by the Media, Communication, and Journalism (MCJ) Program of NSU in collaboration with DW Akademie.  Dr. Towfique E Elahi, Associate Professor of MCJ at NSU and Conference Convener, closed the event with reflections on its impact, stating, “Whether it’s new media or traditional media, there is much we can contribute to these fields. Through engaging discussions, this conference has explored how journalism education can evolve and prepare students for a technology-driven future.”

The conference featured several insightful sessions:

• A session on ethical considerations in journalism education, moderated by Dr. SM Rizwan-ul-Alam, Associate Professor of MCJ, NSU. Speakers raised concerns about declining journalistic ethics in the digital age and stressed the need for reforms to enhance objectivity, accuracy, and accountability in reporting.
• A discussion on Generation Z’s media consumption patterns, moderated by Dr. Shariful Islam Imshiat, Assistant Professor of MCJ, NSU. Panelists emphasized Gen-Z’s preference for digital-first content and active participation in content creation, urging journalism education to adapt to these trends.
• A session on gender-based challenges in the media industry, moderated by Nusrat Islam, Lecturer of MCJ, NSU. Panelists addressed workplace discrimination, pay inequality, and the importance of gender-sensitive reporting practices.
• The final session on new approaches to journalism education, moderated by Jude W.R. Genilo, Professor at ULAB and International Consultant for DW Akademie. Discussions focused on integrating modern technology, new publishing formats, and preparing students for the digital-first media landscape.

The conference opened on November 26, with Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser to the Interim Government, as the chief guest. Notable moderators on the first day included Dr. Harisur Rahman, Associate Professor & Coordinator of MCJ, NSU, and Dr. Soumik Pal, Assistant Professor, MCJ, NSU.  The CJEN conference remains a crucial platform for advancing journalism education and media innovation in Bangladesh.

Conference Brochure