News

Oct 29, 2026

The Department of Information Studies at East West University (EWU) hosted a seminar titled “Media and Information Literacy Skills for 21st-Century Youth,” followed by a special Award Ceremony, at the university’s Manzur Elahi Auditorium on 29 October, 2026. The event was held as part of the nationwide observance of Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week 2026, in collaboration with the UNESCO Dhaka Office and the Media and Information Literacy Network Bangladesh (MILNetBD), with support from the UN Electoral Project-BALLOT.

Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman, Honorable Adviser to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, graced the event as the Chief Guest. The program was chaired by Professor Dr. Mohammed Farashuddin, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees and Founder Vice Chancellor of EWU. Distinguished Special Guests included Professor Dr. Mohammad Ashik Mosaddik, Vice Chancellor (Acting) of EWU; Dr. Susan Vize, Head of Office and UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh; and Andrés del Castillo Sánchez, representing the UN Electoral Project-BALLOT, Bangladesh.

Professor Dr. Dilara Begum, Chairperson of the Department of Information Studies at EWU, delivered the keynote presentation, emphasizing the vital role of critical thinking and digital awareness among young people in today's information-rich ecosystem. Dr. Kazi Mostak Gausul Hoq, Professor at the Department of Information Science and Library Management, University of Dhaka, served as the key Discussant.

During the seminar, speakers underscored the urgent need to empower youth with 21st-century information literacy skills, highlighting how responsible digital consumption directly impacts governance, democratic awareness, and social cohesion. Following the discussion, an Award Ceremony was held to recognize outstanding contributions and achievements by students and advocates promoting media literacy initiatives during the week-long observance.