AT THE OSCE CENTRE IN ASHGABAT, TRAINING ON MEDIA AND INFORMATION LITERACY WAS CONDUCTED
From September 30 to October 2 2026, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Centre in Ashgabat organized a training course on enhancing media and information literacy in the context of preventing violent extremism and radicalization leading to terrorism. The training brought together students of Magtymguly Turkmen State University, the International University for the Humanities and Development, and the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Turkmenistan, as well as representatives of the Magtymguly Youth Organization, young volunteers of the Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan, and representatives of civil society organizations.
The main objective of the training was to develop young people's knowledge and skills in critically assessing information and verifying its reliability. During the sessions, participants discussed the spread of false information in the digital environment, its impact on public opinion, and ways of countering harmful content. The role of social media algorithms and materials created with the assistance of artificial intelligence in the dissemination of information was also examined.
During the practical sessions, participants became familiar with methods for locating primary sources on the Internet, cross-checking information from different sources, and verifying the reliability of information using digital tools. Particular attention was devoted to the responsible use of artificial intelligence, the protection of personal data, and the verification of information before its dissemination.
On the final day of the training, participants applied the methods they had learned while completing practical tasks, exchanged views on identifying false information and rumours, and discussed the development of initiatives aimed at addressing emerging challenges. Upon completion of the training, the results were reviewed and certificates were presented to the participants.
Leyla JUMAGELDIYEVA,
The 1st-year student of the Faculty of International Journalism
of the Institute of International Relations
of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan