As part of the World Media and Information Literacy Week, the Minister of Communication and Media, Laurence Ndong, accompanied by his Colleague in charge of National Education, Camélia Ntoutoume Leclercq, discussed the students from the Lycées Notre Dame de Quaben and Paul Indjendjet Gondjout, on the delicacy of the processing and dissemination of information in the age of the internet and social networks.
This initiative aims to equip students with the skills necessary to navigate a complex and ever-changing digital environment.
At Quaben and at the former Lycée d’Etat de l’Estuaire (Paul Indjendjet Gondjout), the Minister of Communication and Media stressed the importance of discernment in sharing information. “Not everything is shared, not everything is filmed and published on social networks. Information professionals know how to process and make information public. We must consume information with discernment, recognize “fake news”, false information and be wary of hate speech”advised Laurence Ndong addressing the students.
The students, ranging from the 6th grade to the final year, were interviewed and introduced to techniques for verifying the reliability and sources of information. This awareness is all the more relevant given the rise of ‘’fake news’’ and disinformation, often vectors of violence in schools.
“We were able to explain to the children the missions of the Ministry of Communication, the different media and the impact of information on their daily lives”rejoiced the Minister of National Education, Camélia Ntoutoume Leclercq who, in response to the needs identified, announced in agreement with her Colleague, the creation of clubs dedicated to media education; thus allowing students to continue to develop their skills in processing and disseminating information.
The awareness campaign at the Lycée Paul Indjendjet Gondjout and the Lycée Notre Dame de Quaben represents an essential step in educating young people about media and information.
Organized by the transitional government, in partnership with UNESCO, under the theme : “The new digital frontiers of information” The first World Media and Information Literacy Week will end on October 31, 2024 with an open day at Maison Georges Rawiri, headquarters of Gabon Télévisions and Radio Gabon.
This final event promises to be a strong moment to raise awareness around contemporary media issues.
Elliott Ana Wonder and Tryphene Lembah
2024-10-28 14:52:00
#Laurence #Ndong #Camélia #Ntoutoume #Leclercq #educational #work
**Interview with Laurence Ndong, Minister of Communication and Media**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Ndong. This week marks World Media and Information Literacy Week, and we saw your visit to the Lycées Notre Dame de Quaben and Paul Indjendjet Gondjout. Can you share the primary objectives of this initiative?
**Minister Ndong:** Thank you for having me. The main objective of our initiative is to equip students with vital skills to navigate the digital landscape responsibly. In an age where information travels faster than ever, it’s crucial that young people learn to discern credible sources from misinformation, which can lead to dangerous consequences.
**Editor:** You emphasized the importance of discernment when sharing information. What specific skills do you believe students need to develop?
**Minister Ndong:** Absolutely. Students need to learn how to evaluate information critically, verify sources, and understand the implications of sharing content online. We discussed identifying “fake news,” recognizing hate speech, and appreciating that not all content deserves to be shared. It’s about instilling a sense of responsibility in their online interactions.
**Editor:** The rise of fake news has been a growing concern globally. How do you believe this awareness campaign will help combat misinformation in schools?
**Minister Ndong:** By educating students on the characteristics of misinformation and providing them with practical verification techniques, we empower them to challenge false narratives. This awareness helps create a more informed youth who can contribute to a healthier media environment, not just in schools but in society at large.
**Editor:** You mentioned the collaboration with Camélia Ntoutoume Leclercq, the Minister in charge of National Education. How crucial is this partnership in fostering media literacy among students?
**Minister Ndong:** Our collaboration is vital. Media literacy must be integrated into educational frameworks. Working alongside the Ministry of Education allows us to ensure these principles are taught systematically and reinforced in classrooms across the nation.
**Editor:** what message do you hope these students take away from your discussions?
**Minister Ndong:** I hope they understand that they have the power to influence the information landscape. As future leaders and communicators, their commitment to ethical information sharing can combat negativity and foster positive dialogue in their communities. Responsible media consumption is a shared mission.
**Editor:** Thank you, Minister Ndong, for your insights and for taking the time to speak with us.
**Minister Ndong:** Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure to share our vision for a more discerning generation.
**Interview with Laurence Ndong, Minister of Communication and Media**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Ndong. This week marks World Media and Information Literacy Week, and we saw your visit to the Lycées Notre Dame de Quaben and Paul Indjendjet Gondjout. Can you share the primary objectives of this initiative?
**Minister Ndong:** Thank you for having me. The main objective of our initiative is to equip students with vital skills to navigate the digital landscape responsibly. In an age where information travels faster than ever, it’s crucial that young people learn to discern credible sources from misinformation, which can lead to dangerous consequences.
**Editor:** You emphasized the importance of discernment when sharing information. What specific skills do you believe students need to develop?
**Minister Ndong:** Absolutely. Students need to learn how to evaluate information critically, verify sources, and understand the implications of sharing content online. We discussed identifying “fake news,” recognizing hate speech, and appreciating that not all content deserves to be shared. It’s about instilling a sense of responsibility in their online interactions.
**Editor:** The rise of fake news has become a pressing issue in our society. How do you think this educational initiative can impact students’ everyday lives?
**Minister Ndong:** By empowering students with the tools to analyze and question the information they encounter, we can significantly reduce the spread of misinformation. This initiative is not just about academics; it’s about their daily lives, how they communicate, and the information they consume. Educating them about media literacy will help them become informed citizens who can contribute positively to society.
**Editor:** During your discussions, you also mentioned potential future steps. Can you elaborate on that?
**Minister Ndong:** Certainly. We plan to create clubs dedicated to media education within schools, allowing students to continue practicing and enhancing their skills beyond this campaign. These clubs will foster a culture of informed discussion and active participation, further embedding media literacy in their educational journey.
**Editor:** This initiative seems essential, especially with the theme “The new digital frontiers of information.” What do you hope to achieve through this campaign?
**Minister Ndong:** Our hope is to raise awareness about contemporary media issues and to promote a generation capable of critical thought and responsible media consumption. By the end of the week, during the open day at Maison Georges Rawiri, we anticipate a strong collective engagement around these crucial topics.
**Editor:** Thank you, Minister Ndong, for sharing your insights on this important initiative. We look forward to seeing its impact on the students and the broader community.
**Minister Ndong:** Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to engage in these vital conversations.
