With the government of Bangladesh making steady yet consistent strides towards achieving their vision of having a ‘Digital Bangladesh’, learning the use of Information and Communication Technology has become imperative for professionals of all sectors. ICT has indeed made the communication infinitely more effective and efficient, and has enabled masses all over the globe to connect with each other regardless of geographical location, language, ethnicity, and the like.

Keeping the importance of ICT in mind, Relief International (RI) and Democracywatch (DW) have jointly implemented the program ‘Transparency for Human Rights in Bangladesh’.  Funded by the European Commission, this programme aims to raise awareness about human rights in Bangladesh through the use of media. As part of programme activities, a National Network of Concerned Journalist will be recruited and trained on various issues pertaining to human rights and the media regulations.  The project will be implemented in 20 districts across Bangladesh, and Rajshahi is one of the key locations.

It was on 20^th October 2010 that RI and DW organized a training workshop for 30 journalists of Joypurhat . Mr. Hasibur Rahman Bilu, District Correspondent of the Daily Star, and Advocate Sadrul Alam Ranju, Judge Court of Bogra moderated the event. Mr. Masud Al Mamun and Mr. Rahmatullah Faruque, Program Officers of RI,also co ordinate some sessions. Key topics discussed included Use of ICT in Journalism, Understanding of Citizen Journalism, SMS based human rights reporting and Web based reporting system. Moreover, Para-legal aspects (Domestic Violence, Rape, Acid throwing, Dowry, Abduction, Ransom, Trafficking related legal perspectives,) Constitutional standards and principles of Bangladesh in protecting human rights, and usefulness and components of Advocacy in protecting human rights were also discussed.

The event was a very interesting and enlightening experience for the journalists.  All participants thoroughly appreciated the new methodology taught to them, and agreed that it would highly enrich their reporting skills.