ForensIQ

Overview:

ForensIQ is a student-driven Digital Forensic Lab established under the Department of Media Studies and Journalism at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB). Designed as a dynamic hub for Inquiry, and Innovation, ForensIQ empowers students to explore the intersections of Digital Forensics, Artificial Intelligence, Fact-Checking, Media Information Literacy, Digital Literacy, and Research.

Through Hands-on Training, Peer Collaboration, and Real-World Applications, ForensIQ nurtures Critical Thinking and Investigative Skills necessary for today’s complex digital information landscape. As part of its Outreach Initiative, ForensIQ will extend its expertise to other Educational Institutions across Bangladesh through Workshops, Collaborative Projects, and Knowledge-sharing Platforms, cultivating a new generation of ethically-driven Digital Investigators and Media Literate Citizens.

Mission & Vision:

Vision

To become a leading student-driven Digital Forensic initiative in South Asia that fosters a culture of Critical Inquiry, Ethical Investigation, and Media Integrity in the Digital Age.

Mission

●   To equip students with hands-on skills in Digital Forensics, AI-based Investigation, and Fact-Checking.
●   To promote Critical Media Literacy and Digital Citizenship through collaborative learning.
●   To create a sustainable ecosystem of Student Researchers and Digital Investigators within and beyond ULAB.
●   To contribute to the National and Global Fight against Misinformation, Disinformation, and Digital Manipulation.

Objectives

●   Educate members in cutting-edge Tools and Techniques in Digital Forensics, AI, and Verification.
●   Engage students through Workshops, Research Projects, Simulations, Investigations, and Interventions.
●   Expand to put impact through Outreach Programs and Collaborations with other Educational Institutions.
●   Empower the youth with the skills to critically assess Information, Detect Manipulation, and foster a culture of Truth and Accountability.
●   Establish ForensIQ as a thought leader in student-driven Digital Forensic Education and Action in Bangladesh and beyond.

Program Structure:

Learning Outcomes:

●   Fact-Checking Skills: Develop the ability to verify content, identify false or misleading information, and apply investigative techniques in real-time environments.
●   Media Literacy: Strengthen analytical thinking to critically evaluate media content, narratives, sources, and digital manipulation.
●   Digital Forensics & AI: Gain hands-on knowledge of forensic tools, AI-based verification systems, and digital trace analysis.
●   Content Creation: Learn to design and produce engaging, evidence-based multimedia content that counters misinformation.
●   Research Proficiency: Cultivate academic and field research skills focused on misinformation trends, user behavior, and literacy frameworks.
●   Public Outreach Skills: Build the ability to design and implement community-focused workshops, campaigns, and educational materials.
●   Collaboration & Leadership: Foster strong teamwork and leadership capabilities while partnering with academia, media, and civil society stakeholders.
●   Ethical Practices: Promote responsible digital behavior, uphold transparency, and encourage accountability in communication and media dissemination.

Activities & Deliverables:

Our unique semester-wise development strategy focuses not only on skills but also on the mindset and values needed to navigate and influence the digital media ecosystem.
●   Semester 1: Understand Social Motivation and the role of collective action in combating misinformation.
●   Semester 2: Explore the concept of Courage in standing up for truth and digital integrity.
●   Semester 3: Develop Quick and Alternative Thinking to respond effectively to emerging misinformation.
●   Semester 4: Deepen Critical Thinking to assess, analyze, and interpret digital content with nuance.
●   Semester 5: Practice Leadership, empowering others to act and lead in media literacy initiatives.

Assessment & Certification:

Membership & Eligibility:

Student’s from any Department can apply.

Editorial/Operational Policy (if applicable):

The ForensIQ is built on an interdisciplinary learning model that combines Digital Forensics, AI, Fact-Checking, Media and Digital Literacy, and Research. Our program empowers students to become informed, ethical, and proactive digital citizens who can confront the challenges of misinformation in today's complex media environment.

Through a blend of practical training, theoretical insight, and outreach engagement, students will not only gain technical skills but also build the mindset required to lead change in digital and media spaces.

Advisors & Instructors:

●   Chief Advisor: Prof Sumon Rahman
●   Advisor: Aminul Islam
●   Executive Advisor: Shuvashish Das Ray Dip
●   Executive Advisor: Ishmam Rahim Kareeb