Students pursuing their Master’s degree at the Faculty of Journalism at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University have launched AI-Tamyz, a groundbreaking newspaper that is the first of its kind in the Kazakh language. This publication, which integrates scientific, educational, convergent, and inclusive elements, utilises artificial intelligence (AI), according to a report from the university’s press service on April 28.
In addition to its printed edition, AI-Tamyz provides a range of digital offerings, including audio-text and video content. Multiple AI programs were used to produce a diverse array of content, including articles, images, videos, and audio. A groundbreaking initiative allows visually impaired readers to engage with articles through audio versions, accessible via QR codes strategically placed in the bottom right corner of each page.
AI-Tamyz is a name that encompasses multiple interpretations. The fusion of Ai and Tamyz results in Aitamyz, which translates to “We speak” in Kazakh. This nomenclature reflects a commitment to addressing significant scientific, educational, and social matters. Tamyz, known as August in Kazakh, represents a plentiful harvest, suggesting that the publication is poised to offer significant contributions.
The newspaper’s concept was born out of a seminar focused on Data Journalism, sparked by the announcement of Italy’s inaugural AI-generated newspaper. Lecturer Kanat Auesbaiuly has challenged students, urging them to create a comparable project in the Kazakh language.
Content was produced using ChatGPT and GEMINI platforms, while audio elements were crafted using WhisperAI, MicMonster, and Text-to-Speech technologies.
Aishat Naka, the release editor and technical lead on the project, stated, “In the future, we aim to collaborate closely with students from the university’s IT Faculty specialising in programming to develop software that integrates text, audio, and video content in Kazakh.”
Zhumabek Motanov, a newspaper contributor, reported that students created video content using tools like CanvaAI, DALL-E, and Midjourney. The creative potential of neural networks was put to the test as they generated an array of content, including jokes, adventure stories, and poems. The team also used Sunoai to capture sound and music.
“Our efforts encompassed the design of the newspaper’s layout and compiling all essential articles.” The newspaper was fully developed using refined templates from CanvaAI, showcasing the platform’s capabilities. Our current strategy involves releasing AI-Tamyz on a monthly or weekly basis. ” The publication is aimed at all students, faculty members, and researchers at our university,” stated Ayagoz Kabylgayym, who played a key role in assembling and designing the newspaper.