Tanzanian media professionals are hesitant to embrace artificial intelligence due to concerns about job security, misinformation, and a lack of training. A UNESCO-backed study indicates a demand for more structured AI education, while many journalists view AI as a competitor rather than a tool. The need for guidelines and proactive integration of AI is essential for enhancing journalism practices in Tanzania.
The media industry in Tanzania grapples with the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), as professionals remain uncertain about its implications. A study supported by UNESCO reveals that many media practitioners are aware of AI’s presence yet express concerns over misinformation and job security. William Shao, a veteran journalist, emphasizes the duality of AI’s power in shaping information, urging caution among media professionals.
The study, conducted by Tech & Media Convergency in collaboration with UNESCO, highlights the confusion surrounding AI’s role in media. Although 95 percent of journalists express a desire for training on AI tools, only a small fraction of newsroom managers advocate for AI-related policies. Furthermore, while 84 percent advocate for AI skills to be included in journalism curricula, concerns persist regarding misinformation and political propaganda.
The report underscores the potential of AI to enhance newsroom efficiency rather than replace human intellect. It identifies AI’s utility in automating mundane tasks, improving research, and fact-checking. Nevertheless, it cautions against the risk of AI compromising originality, job security, and audience trust.
A significant hurdle in AI adoption is the reluctance among Tanzanian journalists, who often perceive AI as competition rather than a beneficial tool. Trust in AI systems and clarity regarding their journalistic role are critical for overcoming these barriers. AI-generated content presents risks of misinformation, with fear of traditional job displacement adding to anxiety within the profession.
Lastly, the study notes the absence of governmental action on proposed AI integration guidelines for the media sector, highlighting the need for media professionals to drive the change themselves.
In conclusion, Tanzania’s media professionals face notable challenges in embracing artificial intelligence, primarily due to concerns surrounding misinformation, job security, and a lack of training programs. While there is a strong interest in AI as a tool for enhancing journalistic practices, the perception of AI as a competitor and insufficient structured training hinder its adoption. The study calls for proactive measures from media organizations and educational institutions to facilitate a smoother integration of AI technology into journalism.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
