Fighting Falsehoods: Information Officers Urged to Act as an Unyielding Shield

Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farzana has urged information officers to act as an uncompromising shield against the challenges of rumors, misinformation, and deepfake technology, especially during national elections and other critical times.

She made the call on Sunday, October 12, while inaugurating the 42nd BCS (Information) Professional Induction Course at the National Institute of Mass Communication (NIMC). The three-month training program includes 22 officers from the Department of Films and Publications, Department of Mass Communication, and Press Information Department (PID).

In her address as the chief guest, Mahbuba Farzana said that the responsibility of information officers has increased manifold in ensuring an accurate and objective flow of information across the country. “Information officers must face the forces of misinformation, disinformation, fake news, and deepfake content firmly and skillfully. Especially, to deliver a model election to the nation, they must work in effective coordination with district administrations to curb rumors and propaganda,” she emphasized.

Expressing optimism about the program, the Information Secretary said that the three-month training will prepare the officers to effectively tackle such emerging challenges.

Presiding over the ceremony, NIMC Director General Muhammad Hiruzzaman told the trainees, “The National Institute of Mass Communication is your own institution. However, this institute is determined to instill in you a mindset of discipline, diligence, and devotion to duty.” He also urged the trainees to maintain the highest level of discipline and extend full cooperation in fulfilling the institute’s mission.

The event was also attended by NIMC Directors Mosammat Rahima Akter, Dr. Md. Maruf Nawaz, and Parveen Sultana Rabbi, along with other officials of the institute.