Leaders, government officials and community representatives in Isabel Province have taken a significant step toward strengthening digital awareness following the successful completion of a

two-day Digital Media Literacy Workshop in Buala earlier this month.

The workshop, officially opened by Deputy Premier Tony Vahia, brought together 17 participants including departmental heads from the Isabel Provincial Government and key community stakeholders. The training focused on the theme “Strengthening Community Voices and Understanding Misinformation and Disinformation.”

Participants represented a broad cross-section of the community, including government officers, local leaders and civil society representatives. Their shared goal was to improve digital media literacy and develop practical ways to address the spread of misinformation within their communities.

Facilitated by BBC Media Action and led by experienced community trainer and Island Sun Senior Journalist Ben Bilua, the workshop provided hands-on learning designed to equip participants with practical media and digital communication skills.

Throughout the training, attendees explored several critical areas, including identifying and countering misinformation and disinformation, using digital platforms responsibly, and building trust between communities and the media. Discussions also focused on how local voices can be amplified on important issues affecting the province, such as mining activities and climate adaptation.

Participants engaged actively in group discussions, shared real-world experiences, and examined how digital tools can help ensure accurate information reaches communities while strengthening public dialogue.

The workshop concluded on Wednesday, March 11, with participants receiving certificates of participation. They were also encouraged to develop practical action plans to apply the knowledge gained within their workplaces and local communities.

The initiative forms part of BBC Media Action’s ongoing work to strengthen media development and community resilience across the Pacific region. The programme is delivered in partnership with local media organisations including the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC), Island Sun, Solomon Star, Tavuli News, In-depth Solomons, SBM Online, and the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI).

BBC Media Action, the international development charity of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), works worldwide to improve access to trusted information and support inclusive, resilient communities. The project is funded by the UK Government. Photo by Grahamcole, Wikimedia commons.