ABU DHABI, 14th November, 2023 (WAM) -- Mohammed Jalal Al Rayssi, Director-General of the Emirates News Agency (WAM) and Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee for the Global Media Congress (GMC), affirmed that the support of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, has had the greatest impact in solidifying GMC position on the map of the most important international exhibitions and conferences in the media industry.
During his speech at the second edition of the Global Media Congress 2023, which kicked off today in Abu Dhabi, Al Rayssi stated that the diligent follow-up by H.H. Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the National Media Office, for the agenda of this distinctive global gathering has contributed to its success.
“Our gathering today at this important global event presents us with a valuable opportunity to collectively discuss the contemporary challenges facing various sectors and fields of media,” he said.
He added, “It also allows us to collaborate on capitalising on opportunities to implement the best professional practices in various media sectors.”
Moreover, it inspires us to think deeply about how to create a future media industry that meets knowledge needs, aligns with informational aspirations, and contributes to the happiness of peoples and the development of societies.
He pointed out that the second edition of the Congress, a unique event that brings together officials, experts, specialists, and content creators, will positively contribute to shaping the future of the media industry.
He stated that the GMC is an international platform bringing together various media institutions and technology companies from all continents. This year, the congress is distinguished by the participation of 172 countries, including 31 participating for the first time, 257 brands, 24 startups, and media students from 100 universities worldwide. Additionally, 30 training workshops are organised, with nearly 800 journalists covering the events and activities of this global event.
He emphasised that the significant developments at the event each year present the media industry with a growing mission and responsibility to highlight the latest and most valuable innovations. This will be evident in the keynote speeches, dialogue sessions, interactive discussions, training workshops, and digital and smart products presented by organisations.
He pointed out that examining the current agenda of this global event reveals multiple topics addressing immediate concerns of media and technology companies on one side and the diverse aspirations of different segments and categories on the other.
He explained that the first day's themes and sessions revolve around sustainability and climate change issues, with the second day focusing on education in the media field. The third day addresses various issues related to sports media.
He emphasised that the selection of these three topics is due to their importance in shaping the future of the media industry. Observing the challenges faced by news agencies and media institutions, it is evident that they are closely related to the importance of keeping up with modern technology, continually developing human capital skills, and finding sustainable financial alternatives.
He said that the Global Media Congress, with its conference, exhibition, and two platforms for education and creativity, along with diverse workshops, constitutes a qualitative addition for participants, visitors, and exhibitors. This is evident in the vital topics discussed, the modern products exhibited, and the training programmes benefiting a large number of journalists and media students from various countries worldwide.
He expressed satisfaction in attracting exceptional media students from 100 universities worldwide to engage in the training workshops. Additionally, there is a specialised programme catering to journalists from developing countries, offering diverse opportunities for a significant number of journalists from these nations.
Highlighting the importance of the in-depth discussions, he anticipates that they will enhance the roundtable conversations and brainstorming sessions of the media lab. Experts and specialists will contribute to developing future perspectives on globally prioritised media topics.
He stated that news agencies, media institutions, technology companies, and specialised academic institutions in media programmes must continue working together and thinking collectively. This collaborative effort is necessary to address challenges posed by modern communication technologies, including the responsible management of significant developments in social media software and artificial intelligence. These developments cast their shadows on all aspects of social, political, economic, and cultural life.
He encouraged everyone to join forces in delivering purposeful media messages and advancing towards enriching constructive digital content. This content should be guided by credibility as its motto, professionalism as its foundation, and professionalism as the path for its productions.