Media Xcelerate Hackathon: A Transformative Journey in Combating Disinformation

Sharing is caring!

Four Days of Intensive Training Equips South Asian Journalists with Critical Digital Investigation Skills

Colombo, Sri Lanka – January 2025

I recently had the privilege of participating in the Internews Regional Hackathon “Media Xcelerate” under the Indo-Pacific Media Advancement Program (IPMAP), held from January 7-10, 2025, in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This intensive four-day in-person training brought together journalists from across South Asia to build critical skills in countering influence operations and strengthening information integrity in our region.

Building a Regional Network of Truth-Seekers

The hackathon convened approximately 50-65 journalists from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bhutan—all dedicated to investigating and reporting on public interest issues. What made this experience truly remarkable was the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals who share a commitment to accountability journalism and combating disinformation in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

As one participant noted on social media, attending the “#Internews Regional #Hackathon for #SouthAsia Journalists on ‘#Media #Xcelerate’ under Indo-Pacific Media Advancement Program (#IPMAP)” represented a significant milestone in professional development for investigative reporters across the region.

Mastering Advanced Digital Investigation Techniques

The program, conducted by Internews’ expert partners—the Centre for Information Resilience (CIR) and Doublethink Lab (DTL)—provided comprehensive training in cutting-edge investigative techniques. Over four immersive days, we developed proficiency in:

• Video and Image Verification
• Geolocation and Chronolocation
• Mapping Information Operations
• Counter-Disinformation Tools

High-Level Support and Recognition

The significance of this initiative was underscored by the presence of U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung, who delivered remarks at the Media Xcelerate Hackathon. Her participation highlighted the international community’s commitment to supporting independent journalism and information integrity in the Indo-Pacific region. Ambassador Chung’s address emphasised the vital role journalists play in democratic societies and the importance of equipping media professionals with tools to combat misinformation.

A Catalyst for Regional Collaboration

Beyond the technical skills, Media Xcelerate fostered invaluable networking opportunities. The hackathon connected organisations and journalists across South Asia whose work focuses on increasing accountability and transparency. These relationships form the foundation of a regional network capable of collaborating on cross-border investigations and sharing best practices in combating disinformation.

Strengthening Information Integrity

As disinformation campaigns become increasingly sophisticated, programs like Media Xcelerate are essential for equipping journalists with the tools and knowledge needed to serve as guardians of truth.

Media Xcelerate represents more than just a training program; it’s a transformative experience that enhances our ability to investigate, verify, and report with greater accuracy and impact.

This initiative is part of the Indo-Pacific Media Advancement Program (IPMAP), implemented by Internews to strengthen the capacity of media outlets and journalists across the Indo-Pacific region in developing business strategies, enhancing independent journalism, and contributing to information integrity.