Media Smart: Spotting Truth in a Fake News World for Non-Journalists
ID: 354150Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Africa Regional Services (DOS-FRA-ARS)

Award Range

$250K - $250K

Eligible Applicants

Others

Funding Category

Opportunity Zone Benefits

Funding Instrument

Cooperative Agreement

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes
Timeline
    Description

    The Africa Regional Services of the U.S. Department of State is offering a funding opportunity titled "Media Smart: Spotting Truth in a Fake News World for Non-Journalists," aimed at enhancing media literacy among youth, educators, and community leaders in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in West African countries. The program seeks proposals for training workshops that will cover topics such as media bias, types of disinformation, and critical thinking skills, with activities conducted in both French and English over a six-month period. This initiative is crucial in addressing the rising challenges of misinformation and disinformation in Africa, empowering young adults to navigate the complexities of digital content and fostering responsible communication practices. The total funding available is $250,000, with proposals due by June 15, 2024, and interested applicants can contact ARSSpeaker@state.gov for further information.

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    Title
    Posted
    The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of African Affairs has announced a funding opportunity entitled "Media Smart: Spotting Truth in a Fake News World for Non-Journalists." This initiative seeks to train youth, educators, and community leaders in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly West African countries, in media literacy to combat misinformation and disinformation. The program, which offers $250,000 in funding, prioritizes training workshops on various topics, including understanding media bias, recognizing disinformation types, and developing critical thinking skills. Activities will be conducted in both French and English over six months, with an emphasis on online engagement and possibly an in-person colloquium. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions with a proven capacity for managing substantial grants. Successful proposals must address the specific challenges of disinformation in the African context and must include robust monitoring and evaluation plans. Proposals are due on June 15, 2024, with an anticipated start date of October 1, 2024. The funding aims to enhance media literacy, thereby empowering young African adults to navigate the complexities of AI and disinformation in today’s digital realm, fostering informed and responsible communication practices.
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