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International AI Technology Workshop for Young Journalists
An International AI Technology Workshop for young journalists was held at the auditorium of the Sri Lanka Press Council on 30th January 2026.
Around 50 local and international journalists attended the workshop. Mr. Amado Angelo Sarge Rodriguez Lacuesta, a senior journalist from the Philippines and an Executive Committee Member of PEN International, United Kingdom, delivered the keynote address.
During the program, the basic principles of applying artificial intelligence in journalism were discussed. Special attention was given to minimizing technical errors and using AI effectively to contribute positively to public culture.
The workshop has been planned to be conducted in several stages. As the first phase of the program, this initial workshop provided participants with in-depth knowledge on various topics, including the risks and lack of responsibility associated with AI technology, its strategic importance in shaping human relationships, structural models and changes in AI systems, its impact on lifestyles, psychological effects, the relationship between politics and AI, and many other related areas.
Addressing the gathering, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Press Council, Mr. Priyan R. Wijebandara, stated that the main objective of the workshop was to provide young journalists in Sri Lanka with academic-level knowledge on the use and impact of AI technology.
Meanwhile, the Secretary General of the Asian Media and Cultural Association (AMCA), Mr. Nishantha Alwis, emphasized that AI has become one of the most influential tools shaping modern socio-cultural trends. He stressed that its structural applications must be handled with great care and responsibility. He also pointed out that the use of AI in Sri Lankan media sector is still at an early stage and highlighted the importance of managing social media platforms appropriately.
The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Pathum Wickramaratne, Editor of Kangaroo Post and International Secretary of the Asian Media and Cultural Association (AMCA). He guided discussions on identifying challenges related to AI technology and finding practical solutions, while addressing the concerns raised by participating journalists.
The workshop was jointly organized by the Sri Lanka Press Council, the Asian Media and Cultural Association (AMCA), PEN International (United Kingdom), and the Australian newspaper Kangaroo Post.
Several distinguished guests attended the event, including Mr. Priyan R. Wijebandara, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Press Council; Mr. Niroshana Thambawita, Press Commissioner; Mr. Pathum Pasquel, Chairman of the Asian Media and Cultural Association (AMCA); Mr. Nishantha Alwis, Secretary General of AMCA; Mr. Sisira Yapa, Director and Editorial Board Member of Lake House; and Mr. Kumudu Vajira, Assistant Director of News at the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation.
