Google Enhances Journalistic Skills with AI Workshop in Lagos

Google’s News Initiative hosted an AI workshop in Lagos aimed at improving journalists’ storytelling and production skills. The event showcased AI tools like Gemini and NotebookLM, facilitating better research and fact-checking. Participants found the training impactful, emphasizing the need to leverage AI for competitive journalism.

Google has launched an initiative under its News Initiative (GNI) to support journalists by organizing an Artificial Intelligence (AI) workshop in Lagos. This workshop aims to enhance storytelling, improve production skills, and provide journalists with advanced technological knowledge. The program is part of Google’s commitment to assist the media industry in adapting to the challenges and opportunities that AI presents.

During the event, Mr. Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Google’s Communication and Public Affairs Manager for West Africa, articulated the company’s mission of making information more accessible globally. He emphasized that this commitment involves advancing quality journalism and supporting sustainable publisher business models while fostering a collaborative news community worldwide.

Mr. Kola-Ogunlade further explained that the training signifies Google’s efforts to expand AI resources across different regions and languages, thereby enabling journalists worldwide to utilize AI to enhance their practices. He stated that workshops of this nature provide journalists with essential tools, including Gemini, Pinpoint, and NotebookLM, which aid in research, fact-checking, and content creation.

The workshop, conducted in partnership with GomyCode, facilitated access to a variety of AI-powered tools, empowering participants to effectively search, fact-check, and analyze extensive document collections. Attendees expressed their sentiment that the workshop was both timely and beneficial, underscoring the importance of AI training in journalism.

Adebola Adegoke, a participant from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), described the training as “insightful and informative,” asserting its significant impact on her storytelling and production capabilities. Another anonymous participant stressed the necessity for journalists to engage with AI training to avoid being outpaced by those who adapt to technological advancements.

In summary, Google’s AI workshop in Lagos is a significant step toward enhancing journalistic practices through technology. The initiative not only provides practical tools for journalists but also highlights Google’s commitment to supporting the media industry in adapting to AI advancements. As participants noted, engaging with such training opportunities is essential for staying competitive in the evolving landscape of news reporting.

Original Source: von.gov.ng