The Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) organized a fact-checking workshop on January 26, 2025, Sunday, at the Rose View Hotel in Sylhet. As part of its initiative to conduct similar workshops across all divisional cities in Bangladesh, CGS previously held a workshop in Khulna. A total of 21 journalists from national and local television, print, and online media platforms participated in the event. The workshop aimed to enhance journalists' skills in verifying information and combating misinformation. In the opening speech, CGS Executive Director Zillur Rahman stated, "The skill of fact-checking is a crucial aspect of modern journalism. Since July 5, the widespread dissemination of misinformation and rumors has posed a threat to public awareness and social stability. CGS has always been committed to ensuring responsible journalism, and fact-checking is essential for accurate reporting. Just like in previous years, CGS is conducting workshops across the country this year as well to enhance journalists' skills. This workshop provides a significant opportunity for professional journalists to utilize modern fact-checking tools and work more effectively."

The lead trainer of the workshop was AFP Bangladesh's Fact-Checking Editor, Kadaruddin Shishir. He provided practical training on modern fact-checking methods, the use of various fact-checking tools, and techniques for verifying information accurately. Participants learned how to apply these methods in their professional work, which will help them improve their day-to-day reporting.

Participants found the workshop timely and effective. A senior journalist remarked, "This workshop will bring qualitative changes to our reporting and make us more skilled and confident." A female journalist added, "This workshop has broadened my understanding of fact-checking and strengthened my confidence in tackling misinformation, which will contribute to my professional development."

During the workshop, journalists were introduced to CGS's new misinformation tracking platform, Fact-Checking Hub (www.factcheckinghub.com). This platform will provide updated information on Bangladesh's fact-checking landscape. It will act as a centralized repository by aggregating information from various established fact-checking organizations, helping journalists access credible data. Participants recognized the platform as an effective and useful tool for fact-checking.

This workshop was organized as part of CGS's "Defending Digital Spaces and Uniting Against Misinformation in Bangladesh" program, which aims to promote responsible journalism and enhance professional excellence.

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CGS hosts fact-checking workshop for journalists in Sylhet | The Asian Age Online, Bangladesh