The Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) is set to host an important conference titled AI, Free Press, and Civic Space Tools Challenges, and Future of Investigative Reporting on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, in Abuja.
The event will also mark the launch of the second edition of WSCIJ’s Journalism and Civic Space report, aiming to address pressing issues in the field of journalism.
In a statement released by Motunrayo Alaka, Executive Director/CEO of WSCIJ, the conference will feature a range of speakers who will explore the implications of artificial intelligence on investigative journalism, press freedom, and civic space.
The statement noted that participants will be exposed to in-depth discussions on the evolving media landscape, including media laws and regulations, freedom of expression, and the essential role technology plays in promoting transparency and accountability.
“The one-day event aims to deepen attendees understanding of journalists fundamental rights and principles of a free press.
“It will facilitate conversations surrounding the intersection of technology and the future of investigative journalism, particularly its impact on democracy,” it stated.
According to Alaka, the launch of WSCIJ’s 2023 media monitoring report will follow the success of the previous year’s publication, Hushed Voices, which highlighted the media’s role in defending civic space.
She further added that the conference is part of WSCIJ’s Civic Space Guard programme, designed to empower journalists with vital resources, training, and support to navigate their responsibilities safely and effectively.
The initiative, implemented in collaboration with the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development and supported by the Netherlands Embassy, emphasizes the media’s critical role as an independent guardian of civic space.
Statement added that attendance is open to a wide range of participants, including investigative journalists, media executives, tech innovators, human rights activists, and government officials.
