Training Program for Odia Journalists to Combat Disinformation

Bhubaneswar: A three-month training project aimed at countering disinformation for journalists of Odisha was launched here on Wednesday. The programme organized by the US Consulate General, Hyderabad in collaboration with Osmania University, Hyderabad and Odisha Women in Media (OWM), aimed to enhance the factchecking skills of journalists.

Police Commissioner Sanjeeb Panda graced the event as chief guest and addressed the participants on the challenges posed by social media platforms and WhatsApp in the spread of misinformation and disinformation. Panda provided insightful examples illustrating how factual distortions can mislead the public and emphasized the importance of truth and accuracy in combating such issues. He also suggested effective strategies to tackle misinformation from a law enforcement perspective.

Prof. Stevenson Korah, the project coordinator, along with resource person Dr. Rajeev Panda, underscored the necessity of specialized training for journalists to effectively counter disinformation. They highlighted the program’s focus on equipping journalists with advanced tools and techniques to identify and address false information.

As many as 40 journalists and media professionals, along with students from various educational institutions, have enrolled in the program. The training curriculum is designed to provide hands-on practical experience, empowering participants with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of the modern information landscape.

This initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing the capacity of Odia journalists to uphold the integrity of information in their reporting, thereby contributing to a more informed and discerning public.