Media and Information Literacy Network Bangladesh

The rise of digital platforms has transformed how information is produced, shared, and consumed. To equip young people, particularly university students, with skills needed to critically engage with the media.

The digital revolution has empowered individuals with unprecedented access to information, enabling new forms of independent learning and content creation. However, this vast and free information landscape has also enlarged the spread of misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and online manipulation. Notably, online harassment, including cyberbullying and cyberstalking, significantly impacts mental health, leading to anxiety, depression and social isolation. Presenting new challenges for societies worldwide. As young people increasingly become self-guided learners and digital participants, the ability to critically evaluate information, understand media influence, and engage responsibly has become essential. Media and Information Literacy (MIL) is thus a critical skillset, especially for youth and students, to navigate the complexities of today’s digital environment responsibly. With a long-term vision to empower a broader group of young people as agents of social change, UNESCO Dhaka Office, in collaboration with the Department of Information Studies at East West University, is initiating the formation of a MIL Network among universities. This network aims to grow into a vibrant and inclusive platform, fostering collaboration across universities, primary and secondary educational institutions, media organizations, civil society actors, and policymakers.