Bangkok: The Vaccine for the People Foundation, in collaboration with the National Vaccine Institute and a network of public and private partners, has launched an innovative project aimed at engaging young people in the fight against vaccine misinformation. The initiative, titled "Shot of Truth: Creative Media, Countering Vaccine Fake News," seeks to empower the younger generation to produce online media that effectively counters the spread of disinformation and enhances public confidence in vaccines.
According to Thai News Agency, the foundation has partnered with several key stakeholders, including the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa), MCOT Public Company Limited, Muang Thai Life Assurance Public Company Limited, Pfizer (Thailand) Co., Ltd., AstraZeneca (Thailand) Co., Ltd., and the MorDee smart health service platform by True Digital Group. Together, they are encouraging students to participate in a short video clip contest designed to raise awareness about accurate vaccine information and counteract fake news related to vaccine-preventable respiratory diseases. The goal is to arm the public with the knowledge needed to make informed vaccine choices, thereby strengthening the country's public health infrastructure.
Dr. Manit Thiratantikanon, Chairman of the Vaccine for the People Foundation, emphasized the urgency of the initiative, noting the detrimental impact of misinformation on social media, which has led to increased vaccine hesitancy. He highlighted the necessity of improving media literacy to combat the spread of vaccine-related fake news. Through the "Shot of Truth" project, the foundation aims to harness the creative talents of students to create engaging online content that educates the public and builds resilience against misinformation.
Dr. Nakorn Premsri, Director of the National Vaccine Institute, echoed these sentiments, stating that the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical need to address the spread of false information about vaccines. He affirmed the institute's role in ensuring vaccine security and communicating scientific information to the public. The project aims to equip participants with comprehensive knowledge about vaccines and respiratory infections, enabling them to produce accurate and compelling media content. Dr. Premsri believes that this initiative will bolster the public's immunity against disinformation and contribute to a healthier society.
Ms. Suchana Sinthawathaworn, representing depa, expressed her agency's commitment to promoting safe and creative use of digital technology. She highlighted depa's role in providing digital knowledge and support to help the new generation develop media production skills, thereby enhancing the efficiency and credibility of information dissemination in alignment with depa's 'Digital Skills Roadmap.'
Mr. Nimit Sukprasert from MCOT Public Company Limited pointed out the significant challenges posed by misinformation, particularly in the realm of health and vaccines. He emphasized MCOT's dedication to presenting accurate content and its expertise in verifying news through the Sure Before Share Center, which will be instrumental in supporting the project.
Mr. Pramote Sakkamjorn from Muang Thai Life Assurance underscored the company's commitment to fostering trust and transparency. He expressed the company's readiness to leverage its expertise in data-driven decision-making to support the project, thereby equipping the public with accurate health knowledge and helping them avoid the pitfalls of fake news.
The "Shot of Truth: Creative Media: Addressing Vaccine Fake News" project invites students to submit short video clips that enhance understanding of vaccines. Applications are open until October 15, 2025, with further information available via QR code or the Facebook pages of the National Vaccine Institute and the Vaccine Foundation for the People.