East West University launched its Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2026 activities on 25 October, focusing on critical thinking, responsible information use and the skills needed to navigate an increasingly AI-driven society.

The university’s Department of Information Studies organised the inauguration on campus in collaboration with the Unesco Dhaka Office and the Media and Information Literacy Network Bangladesh, with support from the UN Electoral Project–BALLOT, said a press release.

The global observance runs from 24 to 31 October under the theme “We All Play a Part – Media and Information Literacy for the People”.

The inaugural programme began with an awareness rally in front of Alor Minar, followed by the opening of an awareness campaign booth at the university’s Wi-Fi Zone.

Attendees included Professor Dr Mohammed Farashuddin, chairperson of the university’s board of trustees and founding vice-chancellor; Professor Dr Mohammad Ashik Mosaddik, acting vice-chancellor; and Dr Susan Vize, head of office and Unesco representative to Bangladesh. Unesco officials, faculty members, network representatives and students also attended.

Farashuddin emphasised the university’s commitment to the fair use of information for societal development. Ashik highlighted the importance of media and information literacy in the age of artificial intelligence, while Susan reaffirmed Unesco’s continued support for promoting these skills in Bangladesh.

Professor Dr Dilara Begum highlighted the role of media and information literacy in developing critical thinking, verifying information, identifying misinformation and disinformation, and encouraging responsible use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence.

The programme includes a speech competition today on the “Importance of Media and Information Literacy in the Age of AI”. The competition is scheduled for 26 October, 2026.

An awareness campaign will take place at the university on 27–28 October, followed by a seminar titled “MIL Skills for the 21st-Century Youth”, an award ceremony and a network meeting on 29 October. An online awareness campaign will run on 30–31 October.

The seminar will share research findings on the media and information literacy skills of Bangladeshi youth and gather recommendations from students, researchers, information professionals and other stakeholders on strengthening these skills.

Through the initiative, the department and its partners aim to strengthen collaboration in education, research and public engagement to promote responsible information use.

Observed annually from 24 to 31 October, Global Media and Information Literacy Week promotes the knowledge and skills needed to access, critically evaluate, create and share information responsibly. Unesco and its partners bring together educators, media professionals, policymakers, civil society and young people to strengthen critical thinking and informed participation.