LEEDO launches network group for young journalists

The Local Education and Economic Development Organization (LEEDO) has established a new network group to amplify the voices of underprivileged children and promote positive social change through responsible journalism.

The network was officially launched today (1 July) at an event held at Velisse in Dhanmondi, Dhaka, as part of LEEDO's Young Journalist Changemaker project.

The group brings together LEEDO's young journalists, along with social workers, media professionals and distinguished members of society, to strengthen advocacy for the rights and development of disadvantaged children.

Joining the event virtually, LEEDO Founder and Executive Director Md Forhad Hossain said, "There is no alternative to responsible journalism in protecting the rights of underprivileged children and bringing their realities to the forefront of society. In the future, these young journalists can play a significant role in creating positive social change through their writing and investigative reporting. This network will further strengthen ethical journalism and social advocacy."

He further emphasised that responsible media plays a vital role in highlighting critical issues such as child rights, social justice, inequality and climate change.

Through the Young Journalist Changemaker initiative, LEEDO aims to equip young people with journalism skills grounded in ethics, integrity and humanitarian values.

The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Engineer Abul Bashar; LEEDO Finance Director Murshida Kanta; theatre activist Shamima Lovely; social worker Anwarul Karim; and Md Harun Or Rashid.

Representatives from Bangladesh Scouts, the University of Dhaka, journalists from Somoy TV and Jamuna TV, as well as representatives from various government and non-government organisations, also participated in the workshop.

Speakers at the event said there is no substitute for strengthening the capacity of LEEDO's young journalists and promoting ethical journalism to accurately portray the realities, rights and life struggles of underprivileged children.

Participants also shared their experiences and future plans regarding child rights, social justice and the role of responsible media.

The organisers noted that LEEDO has been working for more than 25 years to promote the education, protection, rehabilitation and social inclusion of street-connected and disadvantaged children.

Building on this experience, the organisation has established the network to create a strong platform for collaboration among media organisations, development agencies and civil society.

The network is expected to facilitate regular communication, information sharing, joint initiatives and advocacy at the policy level to advance the rights and well-being of underprivileged children.