Liberia: Journalists Learn How Artificial Intelligence Can Amplify Their Impact

From May 29 to 31, journalists in Liberia learned how AI and digital tools can enhance storytelling. Training covered using ChatGPT, transcribing interviews, and reaching younger audiences through social media. Experts emphasized the importance of youth representation and innovation, and an Investigative Reporting Award was presented to King Brown for his work.

Monrovia – Over three days from May 29 to 31, 2025, journalists from FrontPage Africa and New Narratives gathered to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can reshape their storytelling. With AI filtering into many sectors, journalism isn’t left behind. The workshop delved into how reporters could integrate AI tools into their daily routines, covering everything from transcription of interviews to improving audio quality.

Grace Joshua Williams, a fellow at New Narratives, shared her thoughts on this shift. “We journalists are transitioning from what we’ve known over the years to a new space of storytelling,” she said. She recounted how the training on tools like ChatGPT and video editing opened her eyes to new methods of storytelling, inspiring her to broaden her perspective.

A significant focus was placed on engaging younger audiences through digital platforms using photos and videos. With the internet reaching more youths each year in Liberia, it’s essential to tailor content towards them. This demographic, which makes up over half of Liberia’s population, often encounters barriers like high unemployment and education disruptions. Notably, UNICEF reported that about one in three kids aged 5 to 17 are engaged in work instead of schooling.

By utilizing current technologies, journalists can connect with these young individuals on platforms popular among them, such as Facebook and TikTok. As Clarke pointed out, the initiative is about adapting existing content to fit these channels. “The whole point of New Narratives is to try and build a journalism ecosystem that’s financially sustainable,” he emphasized.

Alongside the intensive learning, there was also recognition for outstanding reporting. The Investigative Reporting Award was given by Kerstin Jonsson Cissé from the Swedish Embassy in Monrovia to King Brown, acknowledging his significant contributions at New Narratives.

Experts from the Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY) and Smart Liberia also contributed to the program. They emphasized the crucial need for youth representation in governance and underscored the importance of fostering education, innovation, and entrepreneurship, which are key to the country’s future.

In summary, the workshop provided valuable training for journalists in Liberia on using AI and digital tools to enhance storytelling and engage younger audiences. With the youth facing numerous challenges, adapting their content for platforms where these young people are active could empower them and bring journalism closer to the community. The recognition of outstanding work during the event also highlights the increasing commitment within the industry to quality journalism.

Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com