Institutional Capacities of Media in Central Asia Were Strengthened to Integrate Media and Information Literacy

On October 23-24, 2024, regional training was held in Almaty in celebration of the Global Media and Information Literacy Week, which occurs annually from October 24 to 31, following decision by the UN General Assembly in 2021. The training gathered over 30 Media professionals, outlets, including journalists and representatives from Media organizations across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Participants engaged in discussions about the current challenges facing the Media community, explored practical approaches, and exchanged valuable experiences.

During the training, Media experts (Gulnar Asanbaeva, Tatyana Golubtsova) presented a comprehensive study on Media consumption trends in the region, addressing critical issues such as the crisis of trust in journalism and methods for identifying fake news. They also explored strategies for integrating media and information literacy into the editorial policies and practices of Media organizations.

For example:

- "The importance of partnership among journalists and Media organizations in Central Asia lies in the need to develop joint efforts to integrate media and information literacy" - highlighted Akhetov Kainar, Director of the Department of State Policy in the Field of Mass Media, Ministry of Information and Culture of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

- "Today, such a unique opportunity is provided, aimed at cooperation, which will allow not only to exchange experiences and best practices, but also to acquire new modern skills in media and information literacy to solve digital challenges." - noted Bakbergen Koishibayev, Deputy Secretary General of the National Commission of the Republic of Kazakhstan for UNESCO and ISESCO.

- "Technology, innovation and digital cooperation are noted as an important development priority of the Future Pact by UN General Assembly, September 22, 2024. The adopted Digital Compact as a part of the Future Pact sets out principles, commitments and actions that guide us towards joint efforts and cooperation." - emphasized Alton Grizzle, Program Specialist, UNESCO, Headquarter.

- "UNESCO's Policy and Strategy Guidelines on Media and Information Literacy provide a systemic approach for Media organizations and journalists for the better tailored integration. By working together, journalists and Media organizations can effectively combat misinformation, build trust, and promote a more informed society." -emphasized Aida Bektasheva, National Officer of the UNESCO Almaty Regional Office.

"The regional training was an important step towards strengthening the professional resilience of journalists in the region to disinformation and digital threats. In the modern media space, critical perception of digital information is a key aspect of responsible dissemination of news and strengthening trust in the media." -highlighted Shavkat Sabirov, President of the Internet Association of Kazakhstan.

- "The training allowed me to better understand Media consumption in Central Asia, trends in digital platforms based on sociological research."- highlighted Mazhab Juma, journalist of the republican Media group "Asia-Plus" from Kazakhstan.

The focus on information and media literacy training in Central Asia is essential for its enhancing and upholding journalism standards. Ongoing online consultations aimed at integrating media and information literacy into the editorial policies of journalists and the strategies of Media organizations. By fostering these skills, journalists can ensure high-quality standards and contribute to a more responsible and sustainable Media. This project signifies a crucial step towards enhancing the integrity and effectiveness of the media landscape in Central Asia by equipping journalists with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the modern information environment.