Staff Reporter :

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam has said that online and digital journalism have become the dominant platforms for news and information, surpassing the boundaries of traditional media. He noted that digital platforms now serve as the primary source through which people access information, follow current events, and remain connected with society, particularly among younger generations.

The minister made the remarks while addressing the Fruit Festival organized by the Online Editors Alliance (OEA), an association of editors leading the online and digital platforms of Bangladesh’s major media outlets. The event was held on Friday (26 June) evening at the Bangladesh Tourism Corporation’s Abakash Hotel in Mohakhali, Dhaka.

“People now rely on online journalism to learn, watch, and stay informed,” the minister said. “This is the era of digital journalism, and you have successfully embraced the demands of the time. It reflects both your opportunity and your professional capability.”

A former student of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism at the University of Dhaka, Sheikh Robiul Alam added, “I often say that I studied Mass Communication. Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to become a journalist and instead entered politics. However, I continue to admire journalists for their integrity, investigative mindset, and foresight.”

Among the distinguished guests were Gazipur Deputy Commissioner Md. Nurul Karim Bhuiyan, also a former student of the University of Dhaka’s Mass Communication and Journalism Department, and Tajul Islam Rumel, Managing Director of Thrillif Technologies Ltd. and a cyber security specialist. Tiger Media Managing Director Ibnul Irfan and several prominent personalities from different sectors also attended the event.

The programme was chaired by Hasan Sharif, President of the Online Editors Alliance, while Mizanur Rahman Sohel, the organization’s General Secretary, conducted the session.

The event was attended by executive members of the Alliance along with editors, heads of digital operations, and senior representatives from leading newspapers, television channels, and online news platforms across the country.

According to the organizers, the festival was arranged to strengthen professional ties among online media editors while encouraging greater participation from their families. Members of the Alliance attended the event with their families. Special gifts were presented to children, and appreciation tokens were awarded to the spouses of members as part of the celebration.