Local universities play active role in media development: Officials

Universities officials in the UAE emphasised the significance of incorporating innovative media curricula to prepare a new generation of media professionals equipped with the technological advancements in the media sector.

During the second day of the Global Media Congress (GMC), UAE universities were recognised for effectively solidifying the position of local media through scientific research, providing insights into contemporary media issues, and addressing challenges faced by both local and international media.

In statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), officials stressed the importance of integrating innovations, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies into media curricula.

Dr. Anas Najdawi, Director of Abu Dhabi University's Dubai Campus, reiterated the crucial role of universities in media sector development. He stated that Abu Dhabi University, in particular, anticipates the future by analysing the general needs of the sector. Consequently, they study and develop curricula to align with modern times and the requirements of the media market.

He pointed out that traditional media lags behind advanced and digital media. Therefore, it is essential to integrate modern technologies theoretically and practically into all curricula, conducting tests for these modern tools for use in media content creation, advertising campaigns, and educational efforts.

Prof. Ahmed Murad, Associate Provost for Research at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), affirmed that the Global Media Congress is an important platform for the university and its students. It allows them to benefit from scientific experiences presented at the Congress, understand global media challenges, thus, finding appropriate solutions.

He explained that university trends now focus on interdisciplinary specialisation, where media students collaborate with students from other faculties to find solutions to sector challenges, helping them understand the job market and integrate solutions comprehensively.

The UAEU participated in the Congress by presenting various research projects on global media challenges. These projects included a robotic correspondent using "ChatGPT" technology, a specialised application to detect fake news, and an application that uses artificial intelligence techniques to enhance media content and scientific information.