(Don Bosco Technological Institute, Port Moresby) -As we wind down the month, we also conclude another program on 20 July 2024, marking the final session of the Media Education Seminar series organized and coordinated by Fr. Ambrose Pereira, SDB, EAO Social Communication Coordinator, along with his team of volunteer facilitators. This session focused on Artificial Intelligence and practical filming activities. Over 60 participants from various Catholic schools and parishes in Port Moresby, who have been part of the program since the beginning of the year, attended the event.
The program began, as usual, with a prayer. Apart from the communal prayer, representatives from each school also shared their prayer intentions. There was an ice-breaking activity following the prayer, filled with fun and games before the first session of the day began.
The main session of the day was an eye-opening presentation on Artificial Intelligence, facilitated by Fr. Ambrose, which focused on defining AI and its ethical implications for human beings. Fr. Ambrose reminded everyone, “Even though AI is helpful to us, it also has a negative impact as it takes away human creativity and critical thinking.” He added that while AI can perform tasks far faster and better than any human being, but it will never have a soul. During the comments and questions part of the session, both students and teacher animators expressed their views, especially regarding the ethical implications of students using AI for assessments. “As students, when you use AI to do your assignments, be mindful that AI will not be with you in your examination room,” expressed a teacher animator, Ms. Patrina Kaboanga.
After the AI session, there was a review of the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival (DBGYFF) competition, facilitated by a volunteer. Participants were introduced to possible topics for DBGYFF, which each group could choose to work on and submit. Each group was then tasked with creating a one-minute film, which took up the remainder of the program. Participants spent the afternoon filming and editing their projects.
The film presentation session was graced by a guest, Fr. Gregorio Bicomong, SDB, Provincial Superior of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands. He was invited to give remarks, judge the films, and award the top three films. Fr. Greg reminded everyone of how AI is taking over the world and the importance of using media responsibly. “It’s very important that you are aware of AI and its uses, and it’s good that you are learning all these in the media seminars,” stated Fr. Greg. “Be responsible in the use of media.” He then judged and awarded the top three films based on creativity, quality, and storyline. The winners were St. Joseph’s Catholic College in third place, St. Charles Lwanga in second place, and Don Bosco Technological Institute securing first place.
After the presentation, Mr. Leo Paraha, one of the volunteer facilitators and a teacher animator from Don Bosco Technical School, challenged the youth in his closing remarks to apply what they have learned in the media seminar series and use media positively to inspire others. “Let it not only be here but carry it with you when you leave the media seminar. Use social media or any form of media in the right way,” stated Mr. Leo. He thanked Fr. Ambrose for coordinating this great program for the students this year.
Source: Bosco Link