Published: 23 September 2024
A diverse group of sports journalists gathered for the first national sports journalism ethics workshop, aptly titled “Uncovering Integrity: Sports Journalism Workshop for BSPA Members.” This morning, the conference room of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) buzzed with anticipation as Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, TIB's Executive Director, welcomed attendees with a playful twist. While inaugurated the workshop Dr. Zaman address on the importance of stop corruption. He highlighted the lack of in-depth studies on corruption within sports in Bangladesh, urging journalists to contribute their unique insights and stories. “Your voices matter,” he asserted, igniting a spark of inspiration among the audience.
The workshop aimed to equip journalists with the tools needed to confront the integrity crisis affecting Bangladesh’s sports culture—one that unites people but has been tarnished by unethical behavior. As discussions unfolded, a palpable sense of responsibility and urgency filled the room, pushing each attendee to consider their role as keepers of transparency.
Among the participants was Khandaker Tarek, a passionate photojournalist and freedom fighter, who viewed his role in sports journalism as an extension of his commitment to transparency and justice. As he sat immersed in the workshop, his pen moved swiftly across the pages of his notebook, capturing insights on adapting his expertise to address emerging challenges in sports journalism. “What changes can we enact?” he wondered about. “How can we uphold integrity in our reporting?”
The President of the BSPA, Rezwan-uz-zaman, advocates for more of a such workshop to empower journalists with the knowledge needed to challenge corrupt practices. “Together, we must formulate a strategy to cleanse our sports of corruption,” he stated.
As the day progressed, sessions on investigative journalism and multimedia reporting unfolded, drawing journalists deeper into discussions about the complexities of ethical sports reporting. Notable speakers, like Dr. Saiful Alam Chowdhury from the University of Dhaka, advocated for neutrality and responsible storytelling, urging participants to remain dedicated to factual reporting in an era widespread with misinformation. Sonat Babla, veteran journalist and sports editor of Shokal Shondha, aptly summarized the purpose of the workshop- “This is the beginning of a crucial discussion on ethical journalism in sports,” he also said, we must continue this ongoing conversations to uncover the integrity challenges they all faced”.
With each shared experience, the journalists began to form a spirited community—committed to elevating the standards of sports journalism in Bangladesh. By day’s end, the workshop fostered not just learning but a profound sense of shared responsibility. As Dr. Iftekharuzzaman concluded the workshop, he incited the significance of their mission. “Together, we forge a new narrative—one that champions integrity and ethical standards in sports journalism.”
With robustness, Khandaker Tarek and his fellow journalists left the workshop not only as reporters, but as dedicated architects of accountability and integrity within their field. They embraced the call to not only celebrate victories but to pursue the truth, committed to enhance transparency in sports journalism for the betterment of Bangladesh and its passionate sports community.
