A delegation of the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, led by Information Officer Marjon Kamrani, conducted specialized training on "Artificial Intelligence and Media" for the staff and students of department of Journalism and Mass Communication at Hawassa University and mainstream media personnels in two separate sessions on April 2, 2026.
Dr. Emebet Bekele, Executive Director of Public and International Relations at HU, received the delegates in her office and introduced the foundations and developments of Hawassa University over the past 50 years, especially the milestones in international partnerships where the USA is at the top of the list.
In her opening remarks during the training, Dr. Emebet highlighted the long-standing partnerships between Hawassa University and the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa and appreciated the capacity building training for journalists and students on a very timely topic.
Mr. Yaregal Mekuria, Head of the Department of Journalism and Communication, warmly welcomed the guests, and expressed gratitude for the Embassy’s consistent support, particularly in the establishment and success of the Media and Literacy Club and the organization of the training workshop, noting that such collaborations are vital for both individual and institutional capacity building.
Mr. James LeMay, a distinguished former journalist and a Speaker on AI and media at the U.S. Department of State, alaborated on the nature and impacts of AI on media and journalism, as well as ways to apply the technology without compromising professionalism.
The morning session conducted at Journalism Lab, main campus, involved students from Media Literacy Club, academic staff of the department and leaders of the public and international relations office. During the afternoon session, Mr. LeMay trained practicing journalists from different mainstream media houses in Hawassa at the Sidama Broadcast Corporation (SBC) meeting hall.
His lectures on exploring the transformative impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on modern newsrooms and its practical applications for media professionals were followed by engaging, interactive discussions between the speaker and the participants.
