CJEN Bangladesh Holds Ten Consultations on Strategic Development Plan

The Communication and Journalism Educators’ Network (CJEN) Bangladesh has successfully concluded a series of ten executive committee consultations to develop its Strategic Development Plan, marking a significant milestone in advancing journalism education and media sustainability in the country.  The initiative, supported by DW Akademie Asia, brought together 28 faculty members from universities across Bangladesh, all dedicated to fostering quality journalism. The consultation series, which began with a Familiarization Online Meeting on October 18, 2024, laid the foundation for a structured and forward-looking approach to CJEN’s role in the media landscape.

The meetings were moderated by Professor Dr. Jude William Genilo, Pro-Vice Chancellor of ULAB, and Susanne Glaeser, Consultant at DW Akademie, who guided participants through in-depth discussions on the challenges and opportunities in journalism education and media development.

Key Consultations and Focus Areas:

1. October 18, 2024 – Familiarization and orientation on sustainability needs.
2. October 31, 2024 – SWOT analysis of Bangladesh’s media sector.
3. November 20, 2024 – Brainstorming solutions to media challenges in Bangladesh.
4. December 19, 2024 – Defining CJEN’s scope, role, and responsibilities.
5. January 9, 2025 – Identifying CJEN’s key program areas.
6. January 23, 2025 – Membership structure and operational areas.
7. February 6, 2025 – Developing CJEN’s vision, mission, goals, and values statement.
8. February 13, 2025 – Establishing governance structures within CJEN.
9. February 21, 2025 – Designing CJEN’s communication strategy.
10. February 27, 2025 – Ensuring CJEN’s financial sustainability.

Throughout the sessions, participants reflected on the evolving media landscape in Bangladesh, freedom of expression, the rise of disinformation, and the future of journalism education. The discussions also emphasized the need for ethical reporting, media literacy, and technological adaptation in journalism training.

“These consultations have been a crucial step in shaping the future of journalism education in Bangladesh,” said Dr. Jude William Genilo. “By fostering collaboration and strategic thinking, CJEN is strengthening its foundation to support educators, students, and media professionals.”

The CJEN Strategic Development Plan will be officially presented at the next CJEN Bangladesh Networking Conference.  CJEN encourages all educators, journalists, and media professionals to engage with this initiative and contribute to strengthening journalism education in Bangladesh.