AI in Journalism Training Held by Federation of Nepali Journalists UK Chapter

London. On the occasion of the 33rd World Press Freedom Day, the Federation of Nepali Journalists UK Chapter has successfully completed a one-day special virtual training program on 'AI in Journalism: Opportunities and Challenges'.

In the current context of the increasing use of artificial intelligence in the field of journalism with the rapid development of technology, this training provided in-depth discussion and information on how to use this technology in a responsible, creative, and disciplined manner. The program was facilitated by Lilabraj Bhattarai, a trainer from the Nepal Press Institute.

Trainer Bhattarai mentioned that transparency is the most important principle when using AI in journalism. He said, 'Any content prepared with the help of AI must be clearly disclosed, and a practice of mentioning the name and responsibility of the person who does the final editing and checking should be developed.' He also provided practical knowledge to journalists about the use of various latest AI tools that can simplify and make news collection, writing, and editing tasks effective.

The chief guest of the program and central treasurer of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, Ramkrishna Adhikari, expressed his gratitude and happiness to the UK Chapter for organizing a timely and useful training on the subject. He said, 'We should not be afraid of new technology, our goal should be to raise the professional level even higher through its correct understanding and use.' He also informed the participants about the challenges currently seen in press freedom in Nepal and the efforts being made by the Federation to protect it.

Goodwill messages were also exchanged during this program organized on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day. On this occasion, Bhagirath Yogi, former director of BBC Nepali Service and senior journalist, said that organizing such capacity-building programs is a very important step for free and responsible journalism. He expressed the view that press freedom is not just the right of journalists but the right of the entire society and the cornerstone of democratic values, and emphasized that journalists are the carriers of the voice and rights of the citizens.

Journalists from various media outlets and office bearers of organizations active in the UK participated widely in this training. They shared their views and queries about the AI tools they are currently using. Participants included senior journalist Bhagirath Yogi, branch advisors Naresh Khapangi Magar and Dhurbaraj Aryal, founding president Naveen Pokharel, branch senior vice-president Narendra Basnet, Bishwadeep Tigela, Shyam Rana Magar, Kiran Rai, Goma Rana, Nagendra Nemwang, Doot Pun, Dr. Shiva Tiwari, and former senior vice-president Shyam Luintel.

The program, chaired by branch president Bimala Sen, was conducted by General Secretary Khem Ranabhat.