By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata says that the reason behind the training of over 50 Anambra based Journalists on the use of Artificial Intelligence, AI was to enable them key in fast into the ever changing digital world and as well keep them in good stead for the task ahead.
The Agency in collaboration with Active8 HUB took participants through emerging AI models such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Bing AI, Microsoft Copilot, among others.
Addressing the trainees during the One-Day training tagged, “AI In Journalism” workshop stated that it was targeted at revolutionising the digital landscape through enhancing the skills of journalists across the state.
CFA underscored the importance of exposing media practitioners to immersive exploration into the dynamics of artificial intelligence capable of empowering them with the latest tools and insights, essential for thriving in the evolving media industry.
His words, “The importance of this workshop highlights the pivotal role in realising the visionary agenda of Governor Chukwuma Soludo for widespread technology integration.
“With a focus on equipping journalists with AI-driven solutions, this training stands as a beacon of progress and opportunity in the digital age. This training aims to revolutionise the digital landscape by enhancing the skills of journalists across Anambra State. The workshop is an immersive exploration into the dynamic intersection of artificial intelligence and journalism.
“It is tailored to empower media practitioners with the latest tools and insights essential for thriving in today’s rapidly evolving media industry. You are here because the governor has given us the platform to do what we do. A lot is happening in Anambra when it comes to digital technology. With infrastructure, it is going to be real digital transformation. There is a lot of things that are going on the digital stage.”
Describing journalists as critical stakeholders towards technology advancement, Agbata advised them to ensure they deployed lessons from the training into good use to ensure more efficiency, accuracy and compelling reportage.
“The journalists are critical part of the process and what is most important is to advance the technology by exposing some of you to immense potential and possibilities of AI, what you saw today, we want everyone here to make good use of the tool. Artificial Intelligence is your friend, it has not come to take over your job but to complement what you are doing and make you better at it. The Anambra ICT is happy to work with you to ensure technologies don’t be a problem in doing your job”, he added.
For his part, the Co-Founder, Activ8 Hub, Mr. Chukwuma Mezie-Okoye expressed appreciation for the partnership and pledged continued support towards advancement of digital revolution in the state.
“The message is clear: embrace AI, not as a replacement, but as a complement to journalistic excellence, shaping a more informed, discerning, and connected world. Welcome to the future”, he concluded.
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