News: Senanur Akat – Amine Yağmur Göz
The fifth week of the Media Arena program, organized by the Media Studies Research and Application Center at İstinye University, featured Erdoğan Aktaş, a TV program host from TV100. In the talk titled "The Future of Media in Turkey," Aktaş shared his experiences and advice with students regarding the future of newspapers and media, as well as how to evaluate crisis moments.
"The Foundation of Journalism is Asking the Right Questions"
In the discussion moderated by Dr. Özgenur Reyhan Güler, the Deputy Director of the Media Studies Research and Application Center, Aktaş made striking statements about the future of media and the fundamental dynamics of journalism. He emphasized that journalism encompasses a series of ethical, technical, and strategic elements. "The world is changing rapidly. To stand out in the media, you must make a difference. Most importantly, you must know how to ask the right questions," he asserted, highlighting that the essence of journalism is built on inquiry and accurate reporting.
"If a Journalist Can't Manage a Crisis, the Crisis Manages the Journalist"
Aktaş pointed out the importance of journalists maintaining their composure during crises, stating, “If a journalist cannot manage a crisis, the crisis will manage the journalist.” He recalled the broadcasting struggle they faced during the July 15 coup attempt when CNN Türk's building was stormed, stressing that it is crucial for the press to fulfill its responsibilities under difficult conditions.
Digital Transformation and New Generation Journalism
He also discussed the differences between traditional and digital media, noting that the understanding of journalism has undergone significant changes with the development of the internet. "Journalism used to be done under much tougher conditions. Today, technological opportunities have leveled the playing field. Now anyone can be a news source," he said, indicating that this situation directly impacts the quality of journalism.
"New Media is No Longer New"
As the discussion progressed, Aktaş shared his views on the changes in the media world, stating, "We still call it 'new media,' but it's no longer new. Traditional media and digital media have intertwined. The issue now is how content is produced and on which platforms it is disseminated." He recalled Bill Gates’ famous quote, "Content is king," emphasizing that media professionals should focus on content creation.
"The Journalist's Duty is Not to Be Seen, But to Show"
Addressing the challenges faced in the industry, Aktaş remarked that journalists' priority should not be visibility but rather presenting the truth. "There are tough conditions for those who want to work in the media, but this profession has never been easy. What matters is to do accurate reporting despite these challenges," he said. At the end of the discussion, he reiterated that journalism is not just a profession but also a way of life, stating, "The media is one of the most significant forces that guide society. Therefore, one must never compromise on accurate and impartial reporting."
Aktaş offered the following advice to students aspiring to build a career in the media: "Do not fall into the trap of success pornography. Have fun, explore, and learn by making mistakes. Continuously improve yourself and never stop questioning." He also suggested, "Walk 10,000 steps a day and read 50 pages," explaining that this keeps your mind open and increases your knowledge. He concluded with, "Improve your foreign language skills, learn to use artificial intelligence, and embrace the fundamental principles of journalism. Journalism is the art of accessing information and conveying it accurately to the public."
Following the discussion, a certificate of appreciation was presented to Erdoğan Aktaş by Prof. Dr. Hatice Öz Pektaş, the Dean of the Faculty of Communication at İstinye University, and Dr. Özgenur Reyhan Güler, the Deputy Director of the Media Studies Research and Application Center.