Global Journal of Human-Social Science, A: Arts and Humanities, Volume 22 Issue 8

Prospects and Challenges of Journalism in Northern Divisions of Bangladesh: An Exploratory Study Abu Hanif Mohammad Sayeduzzaman α , Mohammad Shukur Ali σ , Anisul Ashekeen ρ , Mohammad Faisal Shameem Ѡ & Mohammad Asaduzzaman Khan ¥ Abstract - Background: Journalists are highly respected members of our society usually known as mass media personalities who make important contributions to the promotion of economy, education, safety, security peace, love and overall prosperity of the country. They also up hold public opinions, sufferings as well as all the happenings of every nook and corner of our society through electronic and print media so that the people all over the country as well as the government can know the overall aspects and situation of the country which could help all the organs of government to take proper steps in case of necessary and emergency. However, to obey this professional duties, they have to face socio- economic, political as well as some other challenges in the society when they cannot perform their professionalism fully or can partially perform. The aim of this study was to explore a survey in the northern divisions of Bangladesh to know the prospects and challenges of journalism in the northern divisions of Bangladesh. Methods: This was a prospective observational, cross- sectional study conducted in Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions of Bangladesh during June, 2021 to June, 2022 and a total of 167 respondents were included in this study. The ethical clearance of this study was obtained from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of shikkhabarta.com. Informed written consent were taken from all the participants of this study. Data were collected through a face to face interview using a pre structured questionnaire by the researcher. Both qualitative and quantitative (Mix Method) were applied to find out best possible outcome. Purposive computerized randomization sampling method as per inclusion criteria was applied for the study. Samples were selected conveniently according to inclusion and exclusion criteria and availability of cases. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software, Version- 23.0. The results were presented in tables, graphs and pie charts in percentages. Results: Among the respondents 94.01% were male and 5.99% were female. 25.1% were aged (18 -29) years, 37.7% were (30-39) years, and 29.3% were (40-49) years. 71.9% respondents mentioned they were the members of the local press club 31.74% got appointment letters. 20% reported drawing pay, 20% of companies pay regularly. 19.16% of companies provide children education allowance. 12.57% stated their company supplied insurance. 78.4% respondents mentioned, their organization did not provide any festival allowance to them. 38.4% get yearly performance awards. 75% need training, 60% said corporate promotions were late. 23, 3% of firms provide office space. 11.98% of workers have insurance. 32.93% claimed family supports their job; 60% worry about physical safety. 52.7 % were worried about digital security of their documents. 61.68% of participants reported work-related threats.70.7% claimed their working hours were not conducive to them. 69.5% respondents mentioned their organization did not take any initiatives for their stress concealing. 71.9% respondents claimed, their organization did not take any initiative to mitigate risks or challenges while collecting news.71.9% respondents claimed their office did not provide them transports while covering news. 85.6% respondents mentioned, they have no provident found or gratuity facility in their organization. 74.9% respondents mentioned their recruiting authority never provided them with any news covering related electronic devices.38.3% respondents claimed; they experienced the threats of data security like tapping or hacking. 41.32% respondents used security software. 40.7% respondents had data security training. 46.7% respondents were only aware of Digital Security Act. Conclusion: This study identifies challenges affecting the Journalism Profession in northern divisions of Bangladesh, such as work instability, risk, poor facilities, and a lack of an appropriate job policy. Despite its shortcomings, the study recommends encouraging and growing journalism in Bangladesh. I. I ntroduction ournalism is a prominent career in Bangladesh, and those who work in this noble field contribute significantly to the development of the country's various industries. Despite the fact that journalism is a very significant career, there are no specific requirements for becoming a journalist or a politician in the United States. However, recently, there has been a little improvement in this scenario. A graduate can pursue a career in the media. However, in some circumstances, a bachelor's degree in journalism from an accredited university is a requirement for employment. Recruitment is an important part of every business [1]. In Bangladesh two thousand registered in daily newspapers published around the country, with more than four hundred of them being dailies. It is vital to note that more than two hundred newspapers are printed in the capital every day. Dhaka is the capital of J © 2022 Global Journals Volume XXII Issue VIII Version I 43 ( ) Global Journal of Human Social Science - Year 2022 A Keywords: prospects, challenges, journalism, northern divisions, Bangladesh. Corresponding Author α : Shikshabarta.com, Dhaka, Bangladesh. e-mail: sayedzamanwlfsac@gmail.com Author σ : Department of English, University of Development Alternative (UODA), Dhaka, Bangladesh. Author ρ : Mass Communication & Journalism, Rajshahi University, Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Author Ѡ : Department of English, Willes Little Flower School & College, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Author ¥ : Shikshabarta.com, Dhaka, Bangladesh.