Fact-Checking and Freedom: Post-Uprising Journalism in Focus at Khulna University
Journalism is a creative profession where intellect and innovation are essential, and a single report can damage a person’s social standing and reputation. Therefore, verifying facts before publishing news is of utmost importance, said Khulna University (KU) Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Harunur Rashid Khan.
He made these remarks as the chief guest at a discussion titled “Journalism After the Mass Uprising: Fact-Check, Institutional and Public Mindset Reconstruction” organized by the Khulna University Journalists’ Association on Sunday, August 10, at the conference room of the university’s Central Research Laboratory.
The KU Pro-Vice-Chancellor added, “The nature of journalism has changed over time. After the mass uprising, we have seen much misinformation being spread, only to be removed moments later. Reports by established journalists are generally accepted as truth by readers, so they must exercise greater caution when presenting news.” He also noted that in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the risks of misinformation and reputational harm have increased.
Faruk Wasif, Director General of the Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB), delivered an extensive discussion on the background and context of the July mass uprising. “Once upon a time, people read newspapers to know the truth; now, newspapers must fact-check before publishing news. In many cases, reports are being retracted after publication, which is alarming for journalism,” he said.
The discussion, presided over by Khulna University Journalists’ Association President Alqama Romin, also featured speeches from Associate Professor Imran Kamal of the Bangla Discipline, Staff Reporter Abul Hasan Himalay of Daily Samakal’s Khulna Bureau, and Khulna University Journalists’ Association General Secretary Mirajul Islam, who delivered the welcome address. Speakers reflected on the role of media after the mass uprising, fact-checking practices, institutional rebuilding, and shifts in public perception.
The event was conducted by former General Secretary Sumaiya Akter and attended by representatives from various Khulna-based media outlets, campus reporters, and invited guests.
