World Press Freedom Day This Saturday: Le Défi Media Group Opens Its Doors to Open University Students

In celebration of World Press Freedom Day on Saturday, May 3rd, Le Défi Media Group welcomed a dozen first-year Media and Communication students from the Open University of Mauritius on Friday, May 2nd. This initiative aimed to foster openness, exchange, and awareness of contemporary challenges in the journalism profession.

During this immersive visit, the students had the opportunity to explore the behind-the-scenes operations of the media group and engage freely with professionals at Le Défi Media Group. They were introduced to various branches, from print journalism to radio, digital platforms, and online television production. This experience allowed future professionals to gain a better understanding of the realities of the profession in a constantly evolving environment.

An Inspiring Dialogue Between Generations

The students praised this "enriching" encounter, which allowed them to align their aspirations with the realities of the field. They also expressed their concerns regarding new challenges in the profession, particularly the pressure from algorithms, the pursuit of virality, and the precariousness of journalism in the digital age.

The day was marked by constructive intergenerational dialogue, celebrating press freedom not just as an achievement but as a daily commitment to defend, transmit, and reinvent it.

Jane Lutchmaya: "The Press Must Continuously Reinvent Itself"

Jane Lutchmaya, Deputy Editor of Le Défi Media Group’s written publications, initiated the discussion during the meeting. She stated, "We had very relevant and enriching exchanges with the students from the Open University of Mauritius, who chose to visit the premises of Le Défi Media Group as part of World Press Freedom Day." She also mentioned, "The discussions covered several major themes: the use of artificial intelligence in journalism, new information consumption habits among youth, the future of print media, and the danger of 'fake news.' In this context, the press must constantly reinvent itself to remain relevant and close to its audience." She emphasized the diversity of activities at Le Défi Media Group, highlighting its unique position in Mauritius with multiple platforms: print, radio, digital platforms, and even online television. "Thus, the group can face the future with confidence, having already gained an edge over its competitors," she concluded, stressing the need for journalists to combine rigor, adaptability, and critical thinking.

Manouraj Gungea: "Deepfakes: A Threat"

Manouraj Gungea, Editor of digital platforms, shared his experience in digital journalism, emphasizing the strengths and challenges unique to this format. He highlighted the increased responsibility of journalists in the face of rampant misinformation. "With technology, we face a significant challenge. We have 1.1 million followers, and we have the duty to provide them with verified, safe, and informative content above all else," he explained to the students. Gungea also drew attention to the alarming rise of 'fake news' and 'deepfakes,' which seriously threaten the integrity of the profession. "Today, a journalist must not only possess talent but also rigor. 'Fake news' and 'deepfakes' are a real threat. Recently, we encountered a 'deepfake' involving one of our journalists, whose voice was used in a video to promote a financial activity that was entirely false." He reminded that Le Défi Media Group, present on all platforms, has the mission to offer an inclusive, neutral, and accessible format for all.

Patrick Hilbert: "An Essential Dialogue for the Future of Journalism"

According to Patrick Hilbert, Deputy Editor at Le Défi Media Group, this meeting with students from the Open University of Mauritius was much more than a mere educational exercise. It represented an opportunity for transmission and collective reflection on the future of a profession in transformation. "The exchange with Open University students about the future of print media in a digital world was both stimulating and hopeful. Their curiosity, pertinent questions, and vision for the journalism of tomorrow reflect a genuine interest in the profession and the challenges that lie ahead," he confided. For him, these moments of sharing are crucial to nurture the bond between generations. "As a media engaged in responsible digital transformation, we have the responsibility to transmit our experience while also listening to the fresh perspective these young people bring to our professions. This dialogue is essential if we want to preserve credible, independent journalism that can adapt to new information consumption modes."

Rajen Permall: The Challenges of the Press

Rajen Ballah Permall, Senior Lecturer in Media and Journalism at the Open University of Mauritius and Program Coordinator for the Media Communication and Journalism curriculum, expressed satisfaction with these exchanges. He was accompanied by Sushita Samjeewon-Neerbun, a lecturer in Media Communication and Journalism. "We had the opportunity to discuss with professionals in the field, including Jane Lutchmaya, Patrick Hilbert, and Manouraj Gungea. Most importantly, our students gained insight into the realities of the information world through this visit. They are passionate about the profession, and some have already shown their intention to join the group later," he noted. He emphasized that this outing was part of the university's Community Engagement Cell, which encourages immersive activities. "Every year, we ensure that our students have the opportunity to meet professionals and understand the true challenges of journalism. We also discussed the challenges facing the press in a rapidly evolving digital world, particularly regarding tools related to artificial intelligence and their use."