The Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) organized a Fact-Checking Training Workshop at a Hotel in Khulna, as part of its nationwide initiative to strengthen journalistic integrity and combat misinformation in Bangladesh. The workshop brought together 24 journalists from 22 national and local TV, print, and online media outlets, aiming to enhance their ability to verify information and address misinformation effectively.

In his opening remarks, Zillur Rahman, Executive Director of CGS, highlighted the importance of fact-checking in today’s fast-paced digital landscape. He stated, “Combating misinformation is critical to preserving public trust and upholding media credibility. This workshop equips professionals with the tools and techniques needed to achieve that goal.”

The session was led by Qadaruddin Shishir, Fact-Checking Editor for AFP Bangladesh, who provided hands-on training on modern fact-checking tools and verification techniques. The interactive nature of the workshop enabled participants to explore practical ways to incorporate these methods into their daily reporting, improving the accuracy and integrity of their work.

An additional event feature was a Focus Group Discussion (FGD), part of CGS’s ongoing study on the state of fact-checking in Bangladesh. Journalists shared their insights on challenges and opportunities in combating misinformation, contributing valuable data to CGS’s research initiatives.

The workshop also introduced participants to CGS’s new Factchecking Hub (www.factcheckinghub.com), a platform designed to consolidate and provide updated information on Bangladesh’s fact-checking landscape. Participants welcomed the platform as a valuable resource for identifying misinformation trends and accessing credible information.

This workshop was part of CGS’s broader program, “Defending Digital Spaces and Uniting Against Misinformation in Bangladesh,” underscoring its commitment to supporting independent journalism and fostering accountability through innovative initiatives.