Barishal University Hosts 7th CJEN Conference

The Department of Mass Communication and Journalism (MCJ) at the University of Barishal, in collaboration with DW Akademie, hosted the 7th CJEN Bangladesh Networking Conference on June 10, 2023. In preparation for the event, a pre-conference meeting was held on March 31 via Zoom to finalize the conference theme and the subjects for its plenary sessions.  The Communication and Journalism Educators’ Network (CJEN) continued its mission of fostering dialogue among journalism educators, researchers, and media professionals. The 7th conference focused on pressing issues, including human behavior in social media, journalism education and reality, artificial intelligence, and the future of journalism.

During the conference, notable academics and journalists exchanged insights on the evolving landscape of journalism. The Vice-Chancellor of Barishal University, Dr. Sadequl Arefin, along with distinguished media experts such as Professor Golam Rahman (Editor, Ajker Patrika & Former Chief Information Commissioner), Professor Dr. Shafiul Alam Bhuiyan, Professor Mofizur Rahman, and Professor Mohammad Shahid Ullah from Chittagong University, enriched the deliberations with their perspectives.  The conference brought together journalism educators, researchers, and practitioners from various institutions. Emran Hossain, Sharifa Shirin, Forhad Uddin, and Dilafroze Taniya, alongside the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Barishal University, were actively involved in organizing the event with dedication.

A major highlight of the conference was the discussion on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Journalism. Serving as a panelist in this session, one speaker emphasized that while AI’s role in journalism is expanding, it will never replace human creativity and critical thinking. “Technology lacks the power of human thought and creativity,” they remarked, reinforcing the irreplaceable value of human-driven journalism.

Another critical discussion focused on journalistic ownership and editorial independence. Speakers addressed the challenges journalists face due to state pressures and media ownership structures. They underscored the importance of journalism’s ultimate mission—serving the public good. “Regardless of technological advancements or AI integration, the need for true, ethical journalism will never fade,” a panelist concluded.  With strong participation and engaging dialogues, the 7th CJEN Bangladesh Networking Conference live up to its promise as a significant event in shaping the future of journalism and communication in Bangladesh.