Workshop on safe and responsible digital engagement begins at SUST

A two-day training workshop titled “Developing Youth Competencies for Safe and Responsible Digital Engagement” began on Saturday at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST), Sylhet.

The Election Lab, Department of Political Studies, SUST; the ULAB Centre for Critical and Qualitative Studies (CQS); and Fact Watch jointly organised the programme with support from UNESCO.

The opening session was held at the New Social Science Building, bringing together academics, researchers and students.

Vice-Chancellor of SUST Professor Dr AM Sarwaruddin Chowdhury attended the inaugural session as chief guest.

In his speech, he stressed the importance of equipping young people with the skills needed to navigate the digital space responsibly and critically, particularly amid the rapid spread of information and growing challenges of misinformation.

Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Md Shajedul Karim attended as special guest, while Treasurer Prof Md Ismail Hossain was also present. The session was chaired by Prof Md Nazrul Islam, head (in-charge) of the Department of Political Studies.

Earlier, Prof Md Shahabul Haque, director of the Election Lab, called the meeting to order. Welcome remarks were delivered by Prof Zayeda Sharmin, deputy director of the Election Lab.

Noor Hasnat Emon presented an overview of the lab’s previous activities, while UNESCO project lead Shakil Foysal and Md Riaz Uddin Khan from the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) introduced the programme. A goodwill speech was also delivered by Prof Md Monirul Islam, director of the International Centre, SUST.

The workshop aims to enhance youth competencies in digital engagement, focusing on safe practices, critical evaluation of information, and responsible participation in the digital ecosystem.

The programme will continue on the following day with training sessions, discussions and interactive activities involving students and young participants.