China's National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) recently held a two-day training program in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, aimed at strengthening digital skills and improving content production for local media professionals. The program, titled "The China-Africa AI Media Training," brought together around 30 professionals from various media departments. This initiative is part of China's efforts to help African countries bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive AI development.
The training focused on practical applications of generative AI in media production, tourism promotion, cultural storytelling, and content commercialization. Chinese experts shared knowledge on AI-powered tools such as automated translation, proofreading, text-to-video generation, digital presenters, and virtual studios. The program adopted a "train-the-trainer" approach to develop local trainers and disseminate AI skills to more African media professionals.
Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian emphasized that AI is rapidly transforming the media industry and that China is committed to helping African countries strengthen their digital capabilities. She highlighted the importance of inclusive AI development, ensuring that its benefits are accessible to all. Chen Mingjian's remarks underscored China's dedication to fostering digital cooperation between China and Africa.
Yang Yong, deputy director-general of the NRTA's Department of International Cooperation, explained that the initiative aimed to strengthen technical capabilities, nurture talent, and promote joint storytelling between China and Africa. The training program was designed to equip Tanzanian media professionals with the skills needed to produce high-quality content and explore new business opportunities.
Participants in the training, such as Mbarouk Khan, a radio presenter and digital content creator, expressed enthusiasm for acquiring AI skills to enhance their productivity and competitiveness. Khan noted that AI skills would enable him to produce higher-quality social media content and potentially increase his income. He called for more training opportunities to help young Tanzanian media professionals adapt to emerging technologies.
Sheba Kussaga, director of business development at Clouds Media Group, a Tanzania-based media organization, welcomed the training, citing its potential to enhance employees' efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness. Kussaga's remarks reflected the media industry's recognition of the importance of AI skills in staying competitive in the digital age.
The "China-Africa AI Media Training" program is a significant step in China's efforts to promote digital cooperation with African countries. By equipping Tanzanian media professionals with AI skills, the program aims to contribute to the growth of a vibrant and competitive media industry in Tanzania and beyond.
Key points
- The training program focused on practical applications of generative AI in media production, tourism promotion, and cultural storytelling.
- Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian emphasized China's commitment to helping African countries strengthen their digital capabilities and promote inclusive AI development.
- The program adopted a "train-the-trainer" approach to develop local trainers and disseminate AI skills to more African media professionals.