In the ever-evolving landscape of modern journalism, technological advances and the digital age are redefining how news is produced and consumed. Leading experts and industry professionals convened at the Forum of Journalism Colleges in the Arab World to delve into the transformative trends steering the course of journalism. Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka, the Editor-in-Chief of Gulf Times, underscored the pressing need for the journalism sector to adapt and harness the potentials offered by digital tools and platforms.
Digital revolution: A defining moment for journalism
The digital revolution has exerted a profound impact on numerous industries, and journalism stands as no exception. Al-Mudahka emphasized how companies that failed to keep stride with technological advancements and digital transformation have found themselves on the brink of obsolescence. This trend holds equally true for the journalism and press domains. Journalism must evolve to remain pertinent in an era marked by increasing digital interconnectedness.
Leveraging online data for compelling content
Al-Mudahka underscored the pivotal role of proactively harnessing the extensive troves of data available on the internet to craft engaging and authenticated content. He cited the instance of the lead-up to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, during which foreign media launched sustained attacks against Qatar. These assaults commenced years ahead of the event and persisted throughout its duration. In response to such challenges, journalism must extend its reach to global audiences, communicating in their native languages transcending conventional Arabic platforms like Al Jazeera.
The significance of artificial intelligence in journalism
A salient insight from the discussion was the imperative of seamlessly integrating modern tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), into the daily workflows of journalists. Al-Mudahka exemplified this point with the ongoing developments in Palestine. By harnessing AI and other online tools, journalists can generate informative content rooted in verified data, fostering greater public awareness of intricate issues.
Addressing the skill discrepancy in journalism
A palpable chasm exists between the requisite skills in contemporary journalism and the methodologies presently adopted in the local press. Journalists and reporters must be adept at using digital tools and conducting online research while maintaining their grasp of regional issues. This amalgamation of proficiencies is pivotal in crafting precise and resonant content.
Al-Mudahka also called for the implementation of stringent legislation to shield the intellectual property of local press and publishing entities. He highlighted the frequent occurrence of larger internet companies appropriating and publishing stories without consent from these organizations. To shield local companies from such potential losses, states must enact measures that deter these unauthorized practices.
Digital media platforms: Paving the way forward
Innovation in journalism education and practice emerged as a recurrent theme in the discussion. Dr. Zahra Harb, a senior lecturer in International Journalism at the City University of London, emphasized the need to seamlessly connect academic studies with real-world journalism practice. Aspiring journalists should be nurtured to create content that seamlessly fits into the digital landscape while adhering to ethical principles.
Dr. Basim Tweissi, the head of the Doha Institutes for Graduate Studies journalism program, acknowledged the formidable challenges confronting the journalism industry today. Given the economic headwinds impacting companies, journalism colleges, and institutes must assume the mantle of leadership in advancing development and innovation to navigate these challenges and propel the industry forward.
