Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md Mahfuj Alam has called on officials and staff of district information offices to take proactive steps in countering misinformation and rumors at the grassroots level.
Speaking at a focus group discussion organized by the Department of Mass Communication at the ministry’s meeting room Tuesday, Mahfuj Alam stressed the need for stronger local engagement. “In addition to raising awareness on key public issues, district information officers must actively combat disinformation in their respective areas,” he said.
He emphasized the potential of these offices in mobilizing public awareness campaigns, urging them to work in close coordination with district administrations, local journalists, and community leaders.
The adviser also highlighted the importance of accelerating the construction of district information complexes across the country, stating that these facilities would significantly enhance the collection, preservation, and dissemination of accurate information.
“Information officers have a crucial role in ensuring the free flow of verified information,” he added, calling for appropriate training programs to strengthen their capacity.
Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farjana echoed these sentiments, underscoring the importance of building stronger ties between district information officers and local media. She urged the officers to act responsibly in curbing the spread of false information.
Also present at the event were BSS Managing Director and Chief Editor Mahbub Morshed, MCD Director General Faizul Haque, Principal Information Officer Md Nizmul Kabir, DG of the Department of Films and Publications Khaleda Begum, Journalists Welfare Trust MD Muhammad Abdullah, Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education Director Md Abed Nomani, former secretary Syed Suja Uddin Ahmed, and former MCD DG Md Abdul Mannan.
