The 16th General Conference of Asia Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIDB) hosted by Public Service Media (PSM) has concluded at Bandos Island Resort.
The first conference of AIBD held in Maldives was hosted by Public Service Media (PSM). The 43rd Annual Gathering, the 16th AIBD General Conference and associated meetings were attended by around 50 members from all member countries.
The meeting examined the annual performance of the Institute and future plans to respond to the fast changing media landscape in Asia Pacific the members of the conference also discussed the developmental needs of the member countries on a broader aspect. At the AIBD General Conference it was decided to expand number of opportunities provided for member countries on 2018 and 2019.
img:http://s1.psmnews.mv/images/660x400/15034130966736.jpg|The inaugural ceremony of AIBD Conference - Photo: President's Office
Moreover, recommendations were made for a meaningful future, one that meets the training needs of member countries and demands of a sustainable Institute and on ways to increase the international finances for the institute. Members emphasised the role of international partners of AIBD in strengthening the capacity of the Institute to deliver training programmes and other activities to members.
On the sidelines of the conference, the Chair of PSM delegates, Managing Director of PSM, Ibrahim Khaleel, met with members from other countries. During these meetings, PSM and member delegates discussed on ways to cooperate in human resource development and providing technical assistance to PSM. In response officials from national media institutes of Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Thailand pledged support to PSM.
During the conference, it was decided to hold the 2018 AIBD General Conference in Colombo as proposed by Sri Lanka. Furthermore, it was also decided that the Asia Media Summit would be held in Indian Capital, New Delhi in 2018, while the 2019 General Conference is slated to be held in Bhutan.
img:http://s3.psmnews.mv/images/660x400/15034130847898.jpg|The inaugural ceremony of AIBD Conference - Photo: President's Office
AIBD, established in 1977 under the auspices of UNESCO, is a unique regional inter-governmental organisation servicing countries of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN-ESCAP) in the field of electronic media development. Full membership of the AIBD is confined to sovereign states and they are invited to designate the broadcasting authority of the country to be the beneficiary. AIBD currently has 26 full member countries, represented by 34 organisations, and 67 affiliate member organisations with a total membership of 101 representing 48 countries and regions and over 50 partners in Asia, Pacific, Europe, Africa, Arab States and North America.