Well-written books are important for building society. It is more important when it comes to books on journalism because this is the profession that depicts how the society could function.

On July 10 last, a book, 'Sangbadikata Raat Biraate', was launched here that drew the attention of many. While most journalism books focus on theoretical aspects, this book, authored by UNB Editor Mahfuzur Rahman, shed light on everyday challenges of journalism in Bangladesh.

"The enrichment of professional skills of those involved in the media is necessary to properly serve society. I think this book will help journalists improve their professional skills," said Information Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud while unveiling the cover of the book.

Mahfuzur Rahman drew upon his three-decade experience to give thoughts on different aspects of journalism.

Mahmud thanked the UNB editor for writing the book. "Everyone can speak, but few can write. Mahfuzur Rahman is one of those few. He brings up various topics of journalism in his book. I hope this book will benefit journalists, students and the profession as a whole," he said, encouraging senior journalists to write books and share their experiences.

Former Dhaka University vice-chancellor Prof AAMS Arefin Siddique said journalism is a tough profession as it only deals with truth. "It's a truth industry. Journalists can only publish the truth, nothing else."

He appreciated Mahfuzur Rahman for writing a book based on his practical experience. "The writer has described the ethical expansion of journalism in details. I believe this book will come handy not only for the students of the discipline but also for the working journalists," he said.

Arefin Siddique urged journalists to remain alert about the abuse of digital platform and technology to check fake news.

DU's Mass Communication and Journalism Department Hononary Professor Dr Sakhawat Ali Khan said it is true that social media is helping people become democratic, but its unedited contents are also creating many problems.

He said Mahfuzur Rahman tried to focus on important issues of journalism in his book based on his own experience as a journalist and a student of this discipline. Dr Khan hoped the book can appease its readers.

Jatiya Press Club President Saiful Alam said writing book is a very creative and difficult task. "That's why many renowned journalists didn't write any book. I hail Mahfuzur Rahman for writing such a book."

Prime Minister's Speechwriter Nazrul Islam said Mahfuzur Rahman in his book has described the challenges the journalism profession is facing today. "The writer has also boldly identified the hegemony of journalists through self-criticism."

Author Mahfuzur Rahman, also a former student of DU's Mass Communication and Journalism department, said a good connection between the classroom and the newsroom is necessary to give the students practical knowledge and make them ready for the media industry.

The author said he tried to share his own understandings and experiences in journalism to help students and young working journalists know about various professional issues.

DU Mass Communication and Journalism department Professor Mofizur Rahman, publisher of the book Gafur Hossain, senior journalist Ajit Kumar Sarker and author's wife Sayeda Farjana Tahsin, among others, spoke at the programme held with Dr Sakhawat Ali Khan in the chair.

Social Development Foundation (SDF) Managing Director AZM Sakhawat Hossain was present at the programme.