TIB trained journalists to ensure accountability in the energy sector

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Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has trained journalists working in the energy sector to improve conceptual and ethical understanding of good governance, transparency and accountability in the energy sector and to enhance professional skills in investigative journalism.

Forum for Energy Reporters Bangladesh (FERB) members participated in this residential training workshop organized at BRAC Center for Development Management (CDM) at Rajendrapur, Gazipur from 10th to 12th April.

A TIB press release today said, “Investigative Journalism in the Fuel Sector: Training Workshop on Capacity Building of Media Workers” was aimed at providing participants with a clear understanding of Bangladesh’s electricity and energy sector, particularly the policy framework related to renewable energy, project approval and implementation, accountability and transparency of good governance and corruption-prone areas. Through this, making their investigative reports more effective, influential and public oriented.

In the closing phase of the training, TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman commented that the process of conversion to renewable energy in Bangladesh is not happening at the expected speed. One of the reasons for this, he said, is that the entire sector has now been politicized by the “fossil fuel” lobby. Media is the most effective force to overcome this situation. The more fact-based investigative reporting comes to the media, the easier it will be to ensure transparency and accountability.’

FERB Executive Director Sirajul Islam Siraj and Vice Chairman Hasan Azad were also present in the closing session.

Various training sessions were conducted by Media and Resources Development Initiative (MRDI) Help Desk Investigative Journalism Head Mohammad Badruddoza, Coastal Livelihood and Environmental Action Network (CLEAN) Chief Executive Hasan Mehdi, Global Strategic Communications Council (GSCC) Information Integrity and Anti-Disinformation Division Senior. Associate Kuntal Roy, Director of Outreach and Communication Department of TIB Mohammad Touhidul Islam, Coordinator of Energy Governance Department. Newazul Mawla and Rifat Rahman, Co-Coordinator of Outreach and Communication Department.