Google Launches News AI Lab Initiative to Accelerate Digital Transformation for Bangladesh Media Organizations

Bangladesh’s media landscape is set to undergo a significant digital transformation with the launch of “News AI Lab,” an initiative designed to integrate artificial intelligence into journalism. The program, spearheaded by Google in partnership with the national newspaper Prothom Alo, aims to equip local media outlets with the tools and strategies necessary to adopt AI-driven solutions.

Applications are currently open for various media entities, including national newspapers, online news portals, television channels, multimedia news startups, and regional media outlets. To be eligible, applicants must be registered in Bangladesh and maintain an active website. Each organization is permitted to nominate two representatives—one from the editorial department and one from the business division—while a senior executive must oversee the institution’s progress throughout the program.

The initiative, scheduled to commence in mid-September, is structured as a comprehensive 15-month journey. The process begins with a six-week online training phase running from September 14 to October 26, 2026. These weekly, two-hour sessions will focus on AI fundamentals and practical applications within newsrooms. This will be followed by a two-day in-person workshop starting November 16, where participants will identify specific institutional challenges, analyze AI capabilities, and prototype solutions using Google’s technology.

Following the initial training, the program transitions into a year-long implementation phase. During this period, selected organizations will work closely with expert trainers to address the “case” or specific operational hurdle identified during the workshops. The goal is to leverage AI for tasks such as research, content generation, translation, and data analytics, ultimately enhancing audience engagement and expanding business operations.

Eight Workers Die From Toxic Gas Exposure at Sitakunda Shipbreaking Yard

Read Article

Participation requires a significant commitment from the organizations. Selected outlets must contribute to progress reports, surveys, and evaluations. Furthermore, participants must grant permission for their content to be utilized by Google’s Gemini Large Language Model (LLM) and assist in the dissemination of case studies or promotional materials derived from their AI implementation experiences.

Interested organizations must submit their applications via the designated online portal by 6:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026. For inquiries regarding the application process or program details, interested parties may contact the organizers via phone at 01338-694849 or through email at [email protected].