Ouagadougou: The Media and Organizational Communications Research Laboratory (LAMCO) is set to organize a pivotal conference from November 14 to 16, 2024, focusing on “Information and communication practices in a changing society.” Dr. Firmin Gouba, head of LAMCO and lecturer at Joseph Ki-Zerbo University, highlighted the conference’s objectives during an interview, emphasizing its role in adapting communication strategies to meet the evolving societal context of Burkina Faso.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Dr. Gouba explained that the conference seeks to reevaluate the training and practices within the information and communication sector, considering rapid technological advancements such as the internet and artificial intelligence. He noted that the social and political landscape of Burkina Faso has significantly transformed since the popular uprising, altering the dynamics between citizens and authorities. This conference aims to explore the positioning of journalists and communicators in this n
ew environment.

Dr. Gouba elaborated that the conference will welcome a diverse range of participants, including researchers in information and communication sciences, doctoral students, professionals from the field, and colleagues from other disciplines like sociology, psychology, and linguistics. This interdisciplinary approach ensures a comprehensive discourse on the subject.

The conference theme has been strategically divided into four key areas: modern productivity and consumption of information, citizen expression as a tool for democracy, governance challenges in the digital age, and the need to reinvent communication professions during crises. These axes will guide the discussions and presentations throughout the event, with sessions dedicated to each topic.

Dr. Gouba also mentioned that the call for papers is currently open, with over fifty submissions already received, and encouraged further participation. The conference’s outcomes will be documented, with the best contributions published for acad
emic and public use, ensuring the longevity of the discussions and insights gained.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Gouba urged media support for the conference, underscoring its significance to all stakeholders in the communication sector. He invited the public to participate actively in the conference, whether through presenting papers or engaging in discussions.