In a world where disinformation spreads rapidly through social media and online platforms, equipping young people with the skills to critically evaluate information is more important than ever. In response to this challenge, Fact Check Center – The Gambia conducted a “Disarming Disinformation” Training of Trainers (ToT) program for high school students, with the generous support of the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ). The training aimed to empower students with the tools and strategies needed to combat false information, fostering a generation of informed digital citizens.
Overview of the Training Program
This program reached approximately 140 students from three high schools across the West Coast Region, Greater Banjul Area, and Lower River Region. With 64% female and 36% male participants, the program ensured gender balance while focusing on developing digital literacy and critical thinking skills.
Students were taught how to identify, debunk, and prevent the spread of disinformation in their daily lives, both inside and outside the school setting. This program aimed to build their capacity in navigating a media landscape filled with both true and false information.
Key Highlights of the Training
- Understanding Disinformation and Its Impact Students learned about the definition and dangers of disinformation, understanding how false information can influence public opinion, fuel conflicts, and disrupt communities. By examining case studies, students were able to see real-world examples of how disinformation spreads and the consequences it can have.
- Fact-Checking Tools and Techniques A crucial part of the training was introducing participants to fact-checking tools and techniques. Students were shown how to verify information using trusted websites and reverse image search tools. This knowledge has empowered them to act as responsible digital citizens, questioning and validating content before sharing.
- Interactive Workshops The program featured engaging activities like group discussions, role-playing, and practical exercises where students had to identify disinformation in simulated scenarios. These hands-on workshops helped solidify the skills learned and gave students the confidence to apply them in real-life situations.
- Empowering Young Leaders A key focus of the training was encouraging students to become ambassadors of media literacy in their schools and communities. By empowering students with the knowledge and resources to combat disinformation, the program planted the seeds for future leaders who can influence their peers and families to adopt critical thinking practices.
- Regional Representation and Gender Balance With participants coming from three distinct regions—West Coast, Greater Banjul Area, and Lower River Region—the program ensured diverse perspectives on the effects of disinformation. The training also celebrated the participation of young women, with 64% of attendees being female, encouraging them to take active roles in combating disinformation within their communities.
Student Testimonials
Student Testimonial:
“As a student, the training has benefited me a lot—not only on the school premises but even outside of school. Now I know who to trust and who not to trust when it comes to information sharing. Thank you, Fact Center and the donors, for helping build our capacity at the local level.”
– Male student, Davinci Senior Secondary School
Student Testimonial:
“After the training, I’ve been following the golden rule: when in doubt, check it out. This has become my habit whenever I receive information. Now I understand that anyone can be a potential spreader of false news in the country.”
– Female student, Soma Senior Secondary School
Student Testimonial:
“I want to say a very big thank you to the facilitator for inspiring me as a young woman aspiring to achieve something big in the future. I was so happy to be educated by a female, and this gave me the opportunity to learn more during the training. This will go a long way for me.”
– Female student, Mayork Senior Secondary School
Conclusion
The Disarming Disinformation Training of Trainers program, funded by the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ), has successfully empowered 140 students to combat disinformation in their communities. With a strong focus on critical thinking and digital literacy, the program has set the stage for these students to become proactive agents of change, spreading awareness and fostering responsible media consumption.
To learn more about the full program and detailed sessions provided to the students, you can download the comprehensive report in PDF format below: