(BSS) - Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farjana today said that information officers must work with utmost professionalism and integrity to counter the challenges posed by rumors, disinformation, and deepfake technology during crucial times, including national elections.

“The responsibility of information officers to ensure the accuracy and objectivity of information flow in the country has increased manifold. Misinformation, disinformation, fake news, and deepfakes must be dealt with firmly and efficiently,” she said.

The secretary said this while addressing the inauguration of the 42nd Professional Entry Course of BCS (Information) at the National Institute of Mass Communication (NIMCO) here.

Mahbuba Farjana said information officers will have to work in effective coordination with the district administration to prevent rumors and propaganda and to present a model election to the nation.

She also expressed hope that the officers will get an opportunity to prepare themselves to face the challenges in this three-month-long training.

NIMCO Director General Muhammad Hiruzzaman presided over the meeting.

A total of 22 officials from the Department of Films and Publications, Department of Mass Communication, and Press Information Department (PID) of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting are participating in this professional entry course.