Media Forum was Held at Maqsut Narikbayev University with Experts from the European Union and Central Asia

Maqsut Narikbayev University, in partnership with the Delegation of the European Union to Kazakhstan, hosted the third regional media forum. Participants discussed online presence in the era of artificial intelligence and information manipulation.

The annual event brought together more than one hundred journalists from all Central Asian countries, fact-checkers, media managers, civil society representatives, media organisations, and students. Experts outlined the role of artificial intelligence, digital security, and the resilience of the information landscape. The programme also featured practical workshops on deepfakes, AI-driven disinformation, newsroom resilience, bias, and protecting media professionals from information threats.

“By offering diverse perspectives, the media play a vital role in fostering dialogue and mutual understanding among communities. In times of crisis, they become an essential tool for delivering accurate and timely information. The work of journalists is crucial to ensuring that citizens remain informed. And informed communities are the foundation of a peaceful and progressive society,” noted EU Special Representative for Central Asia, Eduards Stiprais.

The Special Representative stressed that the European Union will remain a reliable long-term partner in promoting media freedom and strengthening digital resilience in Central Asia. Forum participants also received warm greetings from President of the European Council António Costa, who is currently on an official visit to Astana. The event became an important regional platform, enhancing cooperation between the EU and the Central Asian media community.

“The forum raises issues that are becoming part of a new professional culture. Our university also trains journalists, and this year we introduced an AI course for all final-year students. We have also launched an AI laboratory working with big data and AI applications. This allows us to prepare specialists who are confident in navigating the digital environment,” said MNU Provost Anar Ibrayeva.

Participants of the media forum also learned about the work of the International School of Journalism at MNU.