Doha: HE Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al-Thani, Director of the Government Communications Office (GCO) and Chairman of the Permanent Web Summit Organizing Committee, has underscored the importance of public trust, digital readiness, and the evolution of government communications within the rapidly changing global media landscape.
According to Qatar News Agency, these insights were shared during a dialogue session titled "AI, media and tech: The future of government communication," held at Northwestern University in Qatar on the third day of Web Summit Qatar 2026. The session was led by Dr Marwan Kraidy, Dean and CEO of Northwestern University in Qatar.
HE Sheikh Jassim emphasized the influence of academic knowledge on communication strategies, noting that lessons from Northwestern University in Qatar, particularly in storytelling and transparency, have significantly impacted their work. He stated that while press releases are important, storytelling holds greater significance.
He explained that government communications have evolved considerably, with early investments in digital transformation enhancing institutional readiness and responsiveness. He noted that digital internal communication has enabled proactivity, speed, and accountability.
Addressing the issue of misinformation, the GCO Director stressed the foundational role of public trust, affirming that credibility is the primary defense. He highlighted the necessity of establishing trust early to ensure the reliability of information shared through official channels.
The session also discussed the GCO's efforts to engage with citizens and residents by providing accurate information on life in Qatar, the business environment, and social integration through digital platforms.
HE Sheikh Jassim also spoke on the role of artificial intelligence in government communications, advocating for cautious and responsible use of these technologies to prevent errors in government operations.
Regarding Web Summit Qatar 2026, he described the event as a prime platform for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, showcasing success stories of participants who turned their initial ideas into tangible opportunities.
In his closing remarks, HE Sheikh Jassim encouraged students at Northwestern University in Qatar and beyond to gain practical experience through internships to enhance their skills and career prospects, stressing the importance of simplifying complex issues for public understanding.