Published: 29 December 2024
In an era where accuracy and precision are paramount in journalism, Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has taken a bold step forward to empower journalists with the art of data-driven storytelling. Recognizing the transformative power of data journalism, TIB hosted its first-ever, hands-on, intensive three-day residential training program from December 26 to 28, offering detailed technical training on data journalism for the first time. The program brought together 25 professional journalists from various media backgrounds, including print, online, and television, to explore the intricate aspects of data journalism.
Bridging Gaps in Data Journalism in Bangladesh
While data journalism has gained momentum globally with groundbreaking investigations like the Panama Papers scandal, its practice remains limited in Bangladesh. With this training, TIB aims to bridge the gap, equipping journalists with the tools and techniques to extract accurate and insightful information from complex datasets.
A Comprehensive Learning Experience
The training, held at BCDM in Rajendrapur, covered a comprehensive range of topics essential for modern journalism. Participants engaged in discussions on the fundamentals and stages of data journalism, methods of data collection and mining, techniques for cleaning and analyzing data, and ways to transform intricate information into compelling narratives. The sessions also focused on utilizing open-source data and leveraging the Right to Information Act to uncover hidden truths. Throughout the program, journalists actively participated, raising questions and collaborating on group work to practice their new skills. The training was designed to give hands-on experience, ensuring that participants could apply these techniques effectively in their reporting.
Experience Sharing by Journalists: Enriching Story with Data
This training was a unique and insightful experience for the participating journalists. Many of them spoke highly of the initiative and encouraged TIB to expand its efforts within the media landscape. Several participants noted that both media owners and journalists often lack awareness about data journalism and its potential in storytelling, suggesting that TIB could play a pivotal role in bridging this gap. Echoing this sentiment, Raihan Ferdous, a reporter from Jamuna Television, commended TIB’s initiative. He emphasized that such training empowers journalists to produce more accurate stories while making a meaningful impact on society. He acknowledged that using data will now add greater depth and value to their reporting.
Expert Guidance from Industry Veterans
Leading the sessions were seasoned experts from various fields, including Miraj Ahmed Chowdhury, Managing Director of Digitally Right; Mohammad Tauhidul Islam, Director of Outreach and Communication at TIB; KM Rafiqul Alam and Rifat Rahman, Assistant Coordinators and Data Visualizers at TIB; Md Anowar Hossain Fakir, a Microsoft Certified Trainer and Lead Consultant at Training Bangla; and Nazmul Ahsan, a data journalist from Bloomberg. Their combined expertise provided participants with both technical knowledge and practical insights into using data as a powerful tool for storytelling.
Report Must be Based on Facts
During the closing ceremony, TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman emphasized the importance of professional integrity and unity in journalism. He stated, “Differences of opinion are natural, but journalists must uphold unity and professional integrity. All reporting must be grounded in facts, with no space for compromise. Once integrity is compromised, it sets a precedent that can persist indefinitely. The best defense against challenges is a proactive approach, and unity remains essential in this profession.”
He also added that while TIB's initiatives are often challenging and difficult, the organization remains committed to supporting the media. He emphasized that such training programs will continue to promote best practices in journalism, ultimately serving the public by exposing anomalies and corruption.
Driving Accountability Through Data
This training underscores TIB’s commitment to fostering accountability and transparency in Bangladesh through the power of data journalism. By empowering media professionals to tell impactful stories grounded in facts, TIB hopes to inspire a new wave of journalism that holds power to account and drives social change.