Powering the newsroom of the future
In just two years, Al-Najjar shared that major language models jump from around 30% scoring to over 80% accuracy in PHD-level science questions. “That's smart and almost tripled in just two years,” he pointed out.
He also highlighted a study that showed that by 2024 81.7% of journalists used AI tools for their work, with 87% of newsroom managers saying that in 2025 AI had completely or partially changed newsroom operations.
He insisted that such growth cannot be ignored. From summaries and transcriptions to research and multi-format storytelling, AI is already streamlining newsroom workflows. He pointed to examples where journalists cannot use AI to sift through hours of video footage and vast data libraries, allowing them to manually manage them.
“Gradually, AI is becoming a newsroom brain that resembles a Star Trek 'computer',” he said. Future scenarios include fully AI-powered editing systems, personalized news delivery, and creating seamless multi-format content.
However, there is a great deal of responsibility with great force. He added: “Journalism is already committed to public trust and must be careful. What are you thinking when the media uses AI? Do you respect it the same way? AI is not inherently the enemy of journalism. When used responsibly, it is a tool that can amplify relevance and efficiency,” he added.
Trust cannot be automated
However, Tetty painted a more subtle picture. He highlighted the tsunami of AI-generated websites. This is over 1,300 already identified by NewsGuard so that human editors are not visible. “Since ChatGPT was launched in late 2022, the number of AI-generated content has increased by 8,300%. Today, 74% of all websites reportedly are AI-generated,” he said.
The meaning is serious. With fake news spreading, viewers are tuned out, and journalism is facing a credibility crisis.
Thethi said: “Surveys show that 58% of people don't trust online information, and nearly 90% of journalists believe AI will amplify disinformation. AI can't go out into the field, talk to people, and make connections.
However, he did not completely dismiss AI. He acknowledged that its usefulness can accelerate transcription, translation and data processing as a “digital intern.” He shared an example from Reuters. Reuters said that AI integration has increased newsroom efficiency by 30%.
However, Thethi was portrayed as a storyteller in AI. “When everything is integrated, mass production, fake, it's a race to the bottom. What sets journalism apart is human-generated content that brings authority, credibility and empathy.”
In this session, journalists and attendees left the realisation that the future of journalism may not depend on rejecting or accepting AI. Instead, it should be built on the balance of human judgment and the resonance and accountability remain at the heart of storytelling.
The 14th annual edition of the IGCF is organized under the theme of “Communication for Quality of Life.” This year's two-day forum features over 237 international speakers and 51 sessions across more than 110 activities, including seven inspiring talks across 22 interactive platforms and 22 workshops. The program is built around five key priorities: food security, public health, education, environmental sustainability and the green economy.
The event is supported by 30 partners, including government agencies, research centers, technology and media companies. The forum is produced by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB).
Aghaddir is a senior news reporter for Gulf News and has over a decade of experience covering the UAE's most pressing developments. Known for her keen eye for details and deep expertise in the country's legal and security systems, Agadir offers journalism that clarifies complex issues and informs public discourse. While based in Sharjah, she also covers Dubai and North Emirates. She leads daily reporting with a focus on news-breaking, law enforcement, courts, crime and law. Her work spans education, public safety, environmental issues, and engaging community and adventure. Aghaddir's research story draws readers to meaningful conversations about the evolving challenges and opportunities of the country. Her interests include public policy, judicial issues, social issues, healthcare and governance, and her work series reflects her commitment to accurate, influential and socially relevant journalism. She has established herself as a trustworthy and trustworthy voice in the media in the region.
