NITER hosts first national newspaper-based VOI competition
The first national-level newspaper-based VOI competition, titled 'Journofest 2025', was held at the National Institute of Textile Engineering and Research (NITER) in Savar on 31 January 2026.
The day-long event was organised by the NITER Journalists Association (NISAS) to promote journalism practice and strengthen newspaper-related skills among students.
The competition provided participants with hands-on exposure to newspaper editing, news writing techniques, analytical thinking and fundamental concepts of journalism. Student teams from various educational institutions across the country took part, showcasing their skills through structured competitive rounds.
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Following participant registration, the Newspaper Olympiad was conducted under the VOI format, based on national daily newspapers. During different stages of the competition, teams demonstrated their abilities in news analysis, presentation and critical evaluation.
As part of Journofest 2025, a special session titled 'Basic Journalism' was held at the NITER conference room, jointly moderated by The Business Standard and TBS Graduate. The session focused on newspaper practices, media ethics and professional realities of journalism, offering participants valuable practical insights.
After the lunch break, an exhibition fashion show was organised with the participation of the Knitter Fashion Club, adding diversity to the programme. This was followed by speeches from invited guests who shared guidance and encouragement with the students.
The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony. In the Newspaper VOI Olympiad, Sadman Shakib Saad secured first place, Sajid Mashrafe Fuad finished second and Nafiza Binte Aziz placed third. The winners received certificates and prizes in the presence of organisers and guests.
A special closing session was held at the open stage of NITER, featuring journalist and content creator Mrinmita Majumdar. She shared her professional experiences, challenges in the media industry and advice for students aspiring to pursue careers in journalism, generating strong engagement among attendees.
The national-level competition concluded with a formal closing ceremony. Organisers said initiatives such as Journofest would play a significant role in nurturing future journalists and fostering student interest in journalism across the country.
