By Hatem Hussein
SHARJAH, 13th September, 2023 (WAM) — The Emirates News Agency (WAM) is using artificial intelligence (AI) to raise awareness of the importance of media literacy.
At the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF), which opened today in Sharjah, WAM is showcasing two interactive platforms that demonstrate the potential of AI to generate both real and fake news.
The first platform, titled "Make a News Story at WAM," allows users to use AI tools to create their own news articles and reports. The platform provides users with various templates and data sources, allowing them to control the tone, style, and content of their news stories.
The second platform, titled "Fake News and WAM's Credibility," immerses users in a fake news story that is difficult to distinguish from real news. The platform uses AI to generate a news article that is tailored to the user's interests and beliefs.
"We want to use these platforms to show people how easy it is to create fake news," said WAM Director-General Mohamed Jalal Al Rayssi. "We also want to teach people how to identify fake news so that they can make informed decisions about the information they consume."
"Media literacy is essential in today's world," said Al Rayssi. "With the rise of social media and the spread of fake news, it is more important than ever for people to be able to think critically about the information they consume."
Designed to help people to be more critical consumers of information and to spot fake news, the WAM platforms are open to all IGCF participants.
Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of Sharjah Media Council (SMC), the 12th annual International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2023) started today under the theme "Today's Resources… Tomorrow's Wealth" in Expo Centre Sharjah.
Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB) on 13th-14th September, IGCF 2023 brings together the experiences of more than 250 thought leaders, thinkers and experts in government communication, both at local and international levels. They're leading over 90 main discussions, side sessions, inspiring speeches, seminars, programmes and activities on 14 stages in collaboration with 35 local, regional and international partners.