Omar Bah
In a proactive effort to tackle the pressing issues of hate speech, misinformation, and media accessibility, the University of The Gambia (UTG) School of Journalism and Digital Media (SJDM), in partnership with UNESCO, has launched an extensive curriculum for tertiary media institutions.
This curriculum aims to equip future journalists with the essential skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of today’s media landscape. It was presented to stakeholders for review and validation during a workshop at a local Senegambia hotel.
The workshop, supported by UNESCO’s Regional Office for West Africa (BREDA), integrated critical topics such as information integrity, advanced fact-checking techniques, the Gambian socio-cultural context, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) into the media education curriculum.
This collaborative effort aims to foster a generation of informed and responsible media practitioners capable of promoting social cohesion and combating harmful narratives in The Gambia.
Lamin Jarjou, Senior Programme Officer at the Gambia National Commission for UNESCO (NATCOM), emphasized the urgency of incorporating hate speech and misinformation education into media training. “Hate speech divides communities and undermines social cohesion,” he stated, highlighting the need for future journalists to understand their ethical responsibilities in addressing these issues.
The curriculum is not only a response to the growing prevalence of misinformation and hate speech but also a call for inclusivity in media representation, particularly regarding individuals with disabilities. By mainstreaming discussions around media and disability, the curriculum aims to equip students with the tools to create accessible content and amplify marginalized voices.
Prof. Melchizedec J. Onobe, Dean of the UTG School of Journalism and Digital Media, articulated the curriculum’s broader objectives, stating, “This comprehensive approach will enable our students to understand the complexities of these issues and develop creative skills to address them effectively.” He urged workshop participants to actively engage in refining the curriculum, emphasizing its potential to promote peace and social cohesion in the Gambia.
The curriculum also addresses the critical intersection of media and artificial intelligence, exploring the opportunities and ethical challenges AI presents in journalism. “By understanding how AI can be used ethically in media production, students will be better prepared to navigate potential dangers such as misinformation and deepfakes,” Jarjou noted. As the first-ever curriculum for media institutions in The Gambia, this initiative represents a significant step towards restoring trust in the media.
Prince Bubacarr Aminata Sankanu, the AI project focal point, and lecturer, said, “Through the collaborative support of UNESCO and local stakeholders, the UTG School of Journalism and Digital Media aims to cultivate a new generation of media professionals who are not only skilled but also committed to ethical journalism and responsible media practices.”
In conclusion, the validation workshop marks a crucial milestone in strengthening media education in The Gambia, with the potential to shape a more informed, inclusive, and resilient society. As participants prepare to implement the curriculum, they are called to action to work collaboratively, ensuring that future media practitioners are equipped to meet both current challenges and future opportunities in the evolving media landscape.
