On April 29, Sana’a University—one of Yemen’s leading higher education institutions—hosted its first lecture in the SputnikPro format for students of the Faculty of Media and Communication. The session was delivered by Sputnik Arabic Editor-in-Chief Yazan Ajouz and Suliman Wasim, who spoke to students and faculty about how news agencies are integrating artificial intelligence into their workflows amid ongoing digital transformation, and the growing role of AI in editorial processes.
A welcome address on behalf of the university was delivered by Vice Dean of the Faculty of Media and Communication, Hatem Ali Haidar Muqbil Al-Salahi, who noted: “We must accept that technology has permeated nearly every aspect of our lives. In the media sphere, artificial intelligence has fundamentally reshaped how content is produced—from information gathering to analysis. Today, there is virtually no field where AI does not play a significant role.”
During the workshop, speakers presented practical case studies demonstrating the use of AI in news agency operations—from content production and data analysis to multimedia workflows and verification tools. Particular attention was given to professional ethics, accuracy, and media responsibility in an era defined by the rapid growth of digital platforms.
Ajouz emphasized that “our goal is to improve the quality of our work, speed up access to information, and expand analytical and verification capabilities.” Wasim added that “artificial intelligence is evolving rapidly—from a supporting tool in media into a fully-fledged co-creator of content.”
Students actively engaged in the discussion, raising questions about the future of the profession, the role of international news agencies, and the impact of social media on shaping the news agenda.
Founded in 1970, Sana’a University is Yemen’s largest public university. It includes a wide range of faculties, among them the Faculty of Media and Communication, which trains specialists in journalism, media analysis, and digital communications. The university plays a key role in shaping the country’s academic and research landscape.
SputnikPro is an international outreach project by the Sputnik news agency and radio network, aimed at journalists, media students, press officers, and media managers. It focuses on knowledge exchange and building professional ties with international partners. Sessions are led by Sputnik media executives and invited experts, covering topics such as multimedia production, social media strategies, and the evolution of digital media.
Since its launch in 2018, SputnikPro has held in-person sessions in dozens of countries, while its online programs have reached a broad global audience. The project has engaged more than 15,000 participants worldwide.
