Government to set educational qualifications for journalists: Information Minister

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has said the Bangladesh Press Council has adopted plans to determine educational qualifications for journalists and create an online database to improve journalistic standards, ensure the dignity of genuine journalists, and prevent fake journalism.

The minister shared this information on Sunday, April 19, in response to a written question from Bagerhat-4 MP Md Abdul Alim in parliament.

He said the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has already adopted various action plans to prevent fake news and propaganda. The Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB) will provide training on AI, narrative creation, and multimedia journalism.

The minister said that under the Press Council Act 1974, complaints can be filed with the Press Council against journalists or editors who violate journalistic ethics. Eight complaints are currently pending before the Press Council.

He added that the Press Council has recently organised training workshops in 32 districts to promote objective news delivery and prevent unprofessional journalism.