Freedom, objectivity and responsible practice in journalism can move the country and society forward, National University vice-chancellor Professor Dr A S M Amanullah has said. The media is the mirror of society and one of the main foundations of democracy, he said. In the information-technology age, amid a flood of misinformation and fake news, journalists must play a free, investigative and responsible role to bring correct information to ordinary people.
He made the remarks as chief guest on Saturday (8 August) at the orientation of a new batch of the “Three-Month Certificate Course on Media 2026” at the auditorium of the Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB) on Circuit House Road in the capital.
Professor Amanullah said accurate and objective news can show society the right path, while false information and rumours can create chaos in an instant. There is therefore no alternative to regular training to ensure the quality of journalism, verification of facts and accountability. Journalism is not merely a profession but a social commitment and an important responsibility. Noting that the age of AI has created new challenges for journalism, he stressed acquiring technology and new knowledge.
Outlining the progress of National University’s academic activities, the VC said there would be no session backlog in any of the university’s courses by June 2027. Extensive work is under way to speed up academic activities, modernise syllabuses and help students acquire timely skills. World-class skills-based courses have been launched, curricula modernised, and memoranda of understanding signed with various universities and development agencies at home and abroad.
He said that to meet the challenges of the fourth and fifth industrial revolutions, conventional syllabuses are being changed and skills-based, internationally standard curricula prepared. Various initiatives have also been taken under a “Learning with Happiness” programme to ensure students’ mental development and a joyful learning environment. A move to set up a “Performing Arts College” to develop students’ minds and leadership qualities is also being implemented.
At the event, PIB director-general Faruk Wasif praised the leadership of Professor Amanullah, saying the National University was advancing to new heights under his dynamic leadership, with academic activity regaining pace after clearing a long-standing session backlog.
The programme, moderated by PIB associate professor Monira Sharmin, featured remarks from two trainees. PIB coordinators, senior officials, invited guests and trainee journalists were present.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report