The University of Jordan’s (UJ) radio station organized a special event in celebration of World Press Freedom Day, which included a panel discussion in collaboration with the Department of Journalism, Media, and Digital Communication. The session addressed key challenges and opportunities facing journalists amid the rapid digital transformation.
Head of the Department, Dr. Yasmin Aldamen, emphasized that press freedom is a fundamental pillar of democracy, stressing the importance of creating a safe environment that enables journalists to carry out their duties responsibly. She also highlighted the role of modern technology and artificial intelligence in the future of journalism, affirming that human sensitivity and critical analysis cannot be technologically replaced.
Aldamen spoke about the department’s efforts to prepare specialized media professionals through the Master's Program in Digital Communication, aimed at equipping students with the skills to produce professional media content that keeps pace with rapid changes. She also called for the development of media legislation to ensure the public’s right to access information.
The panel was attended by a number of graduate students and Director of the Radio Department Dr. Jihad Freij. During the discussion, student Hamzah Ksasbeh expressed concern over violations against journalists in conflict zones, calling for urgent international action. Student Mayar Al-Fuqaha discussed the importance of freedom of expression in building responsible public awareness, while student Abdulrahman Al-Dajeh pointed to the decline in press freedom indicators across the Arab world.
At the end of the session, Aldamen praised the students’ contributions and discussions, noting that such forums help develop critical thinking skills and promote a culture of dialogue among the next generation of media professionals.