MUNA Holds Media and Literature Workshop in Jamaica, New York

MUNA New York North Zone’s Media and Cultural Department organized a Media and Literature Workshop on May 10 at the hall room of Quran Academy for Young Scholars (QAFYS), Jamaica branch, in New York.

The workshop was presided over by MUNA New York North Zone President Mominul Islam Mozumder. Welcoming remarks were delivered by MUNA National Assistant Executive Director (Media and Cultural) Anisur Rahman Gazi.

Veteran journalist Kazi Shamsul Haque, CEO and President of MCTV USA, presented the keynote paper at the event. In his address, he said, “The media world is constantly evolving. To survive in this field, one must become a lifelong learner. Creativity and commitment to truth are the greatest strengths of a media professional.”

The event also featured topic-based discussions by Anwar Hossain Monju, Advisory Editor of Weekly Bangladesh; Dr. Wazed A. Khan, Editor of Weekly Bangladesh; and Dr. Ataul Haque Osmani, Chairman of NAHAR and a noted cultural personality. The program was moderated by Advocate Abul Hashem, Literature and Cultural Secretary of MUNA New York North Zone.

In his keynote presentation, Kazi Shamsul Haque discussed various forms and functions of mass media, economic convergence, and the global influence and challenges facing modern media. He noted that media is no longer just a means of delivering news but has become a powerful tool influencing public thought, culture, and global politics. He emphasized that despite technological changes, the primary goal of media should remain the pursuit of truth and public welfare.

Anwar Hossain Monju said literature is the foundation of culture, from which music, drama, acting, and visual arts develop. He encouraged younger generations to engage more deeply in reading and creative literary practices.

Dr. Wazed A. Khan highlighted the growing challenges of community journalism in the age of social media and stressed the importance of responsible and conscience-driven journalism.

Referring to Surah Luqman, Dr. Ataul Haque Osmani said entertainment should not distract people from their religious responsibilities and emphasized the importance of healthy and constructive cultural activities.

In his welcoming remarks, Anisur Rahman Gazi described mass media as the mirror of national life and the fourth pillar of the state, adding that truthful and independent journalism is a form of worship.

In his presidential remarks, Mominul Islam Mozumder said an ethical and well-disciplined society can be built through objective media and healthy cultural practices. He also highlighted the moral and spiritual beauty of Islamic culture.

The workshop began with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an by poet and literary figure Nasir Uddin Ahmed. Participants later introduced themselves and presented self-written poems, Islamic songs, and literary works.