AI in Fact-Checking: An Intensive Training within “Masar” Program
13 May 2025
Under the theme “AI and Fact-Checking… How Can We Integrate It into Our Daily Work?”, the Arab Fact-Checkers Network (AFCN) from ARIJ, concluded an intensive nine-hour training held from May 11 to 13, 2025, focused on exploring how AI tools can be utilized in fact-checking.
The training was part of the six-month “Masar” mentorship program. It brought together 23 fact-checkers from the five participating organizations in the program, alongside other fact-checkers of the AFCN community.
The training was led by Saja Mortada, AFCN manager, and Samya Ayish, ARIJ’s communications manager. Together, they delivered a comprehensive training program covering the technical, editorial, and ethical sides of integrating AI tools into newsrooms and fact-checking units.
On the first day, trainer Saja Mortada introduced participants to the fundamentals of AI and its applications in journalism and fact-checking, with an emphasis on the ethical use of these technologies. The second day focused on mastering prompt engineering for tools like ChatGPT, Claude and Perplexity, using interactive exercises and practical examples.
On the final day, trainer Samya Ayish conducted a hands-on workshop on using AI-powered visual tools to support fact-checking content. Participants learned how to create engaging visuals using platforms such as Canva, Midjourney, and Rytr, with a focus on simplifying complex messages for diverse audiences through multimedia.
At the end of the training, Mohammed Ali Mahroos, Director of the Yemeni fact-checking initiative “Hakikah” said: “ARIJ is always at the forefront of embracing innovations that can make a difference in Arab journalism. This workshop is part of that pioneering spirit, aimed at strengthening the quality of Arab journalism, and guiding the work of fact-checkers towards tools that save them time and effort, and help them keep up with the rapid spread of mis/disinformation and information disorder.”
Asmaa Hassan from the Libyan fact-checking initiative “She Checks“ added: “One of the most important things I learned from this training was how to make use of artificial intelligence tools and employ them to handle tedious tasks that would otherwise be time-consuming. We were introduced to various AI tools and how to craft prompts that align with our specific tasks.”
It’s worth mentioning that this training comes as a part of “Masar” program, which aims to strengthen the strategies of five fact-checking organizations across key areas including fact-checking methodology, communications, digital and physical safety, and business model development. It also reflects ARIJ’s broader vision to empower fact-checking initiatives in the Arab world to navigate digital transformation, build sustainable models, and use AI tools ethically and effectively.
