Challenges, possibilities of women journalists discussed at DRU

Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) and social purpose organisation Friendship jointly held a discussion programme on challenges and possibilities for women in digital journalism at the Nasrul Hamid Auditorium on Thursday.

The discussion was organised to celebrate International Women’s Day 2023 where four women from Friendship’s working areas were awarded as ‘Women of Valour’ for their outstanding contributions to their communities, according to a press release.

Deputy leader of the parliament Matia Chowdhury was the chief guest at the discussion titled ‘Digital Journalism in Bangladesh: the challenges and possibilities for women’ presided by DRU President Morsalin Nomani.

During her speech, Matia Chowdhury said, “Women have contributed significantly during the country’s calamities. It was not easy for girls to march ahead in our country. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has ensured women’s rights and created opportunities for women in important positions in society and the state.”

Friendship founder Runa Khan said, “Gender equality is an important issue in society. Therefore, it is the responsibility of journalists including males and females to talk about and highlight women’s rights.”

She also called upon the journalists to highlight the situation of women living in remote areas before the nation.

The Women of Valour award was introduced in 2022, are given to outstanding female performers for their remarkable contributions to marginalised people living in hard-to-reach and climate-impacted areas.

The award is given in four categories - Saving Lives, Poverty Alleviation, Climate Adaptation and Empowerment. This year’s winners are Mosammat Mariam in the Saving Lives category, Mosammat Sufia Khatun in the Poverty Alleviation category, Mosammat Shahinur Begum in the Climate Adaptation category and Rahima Begum in the Empowerment category.

Friendship founder Runa Khan, President of the National Press Club Farida Yasmin and Founding Director of Bangladesh Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BWCCI) Nazma Jamaluddin were present there as special guests.