KPL
Media must play a greater role in shaping the values, awareness and critical thinking of young people by delivering credible, innovative and engaging content across digital platforms, Thongly Sisoulith, Secretary of the Central Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Youth Union, said at the First National Media Conference on 14 July.
Presenting a paper titled "The Media as a Voice in Educating Youth under New Conditions," Thongly said political and ideological education has long been a core mission of the Youth Union, with media serving as a key channel for promoting Party policies, national values and youth development.
He highlighted the role of the Lao Youth Newspaper, established in 1979, in mobilizing young people to contribute to national development, preserve cultural heritage and strengthen patriotism. Today, he said, that mission has expanded to include digital platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, YouTube and online broadcasting.
Thongly said rapid technological change, artificial intelligence and the spread of misinformation are transforming the media landscape, requiring journalists to move beyond traditional reporting and become trusted guides for young audiences.
He stressed that digital transformation is not simply about publishing content on new platforms, but about changing how news is produced, communicated and consumed. He also called for developing a new generation of journalists with strong political awareness, professional ethics and advanced digital skills.
"The real measure of quality media is not who publishes the most news, but who earns the greatest public trust and contributes most effectively to national development," Thongly said, expressing confidence that Lao media will continue to serve as a powerful force in educating and inspiring the country's youth.
KPL
