WikiBarta
WikiBarta (উইকিবার্তা) is the official online magazine of Wikimedia Bangladesh, created as a platform for documenting and sharing news, stories, and developments related to the Wikimedia movement—particularly within the Bangla-speaking communities. It plays a pivotal role in fostering communication among Wikimedia contributors, highlighting community achievements, and encouraging active engagement in Wikimedia projects.
Contents and Sections
[edit]WikiBarta was launched to provide regular updates and editorial content on Wikimedia-related events, community projects, and knowledge-sharing initiatives. Its sections typically include:
- International news
- National news
- Special reports
- Articles
- Brief updates
- Interviews
- Wiki-Humour (lighthearted or satirical content related to Wikimedia)
- Upcoming events
- Announcements
The interview section, in particular, has offered thoughtful conversations with both local and international members of the Wikimedia movement, helping to connect the Bangla-speaking community with the broader global network. Over the years, it has featured voices such as Katherine Maher, former Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the Wikimedia Foundation; Lane Rasberry, Wikimedian-in-Residence at the School of Data Science, University of Virginia; and Samir Elsharbaty, Community Brand and Marketing Coordinator at the Wikimedia Foundation—reflecting the diversity, expertise, and global reach of the movement.
History
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The first issue of WikiBarta was published on 14 April 2018, coinciding with the Bengali New Year (Pohela Boishakh). This date was chosen to symbolize a fresh beginning and a celebration of culture, aligning well with the magazine’s mission to promote the values of free knowledge and community spirit.
Since its inception, the magazine has been published periodically by volunteers from Wikimedia Bangladesh. Each issue is carefully curated to reflect the dynamic activities of the Wikimedia community in Bangladesh and to inspire new contributors to join the movement.
Publication
[edit]As of June 2025, a total of 12 issues of WikiBarta have been published. The frequency of publication varies, with new issues typically released to mark major Wikimedia events or milestones.
The magazine is published in digital format and is freely accessible to readers. Archived issues are available on the official WikiBarta website.
Printed Edition
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The first printed edition of WikiBarta was released in late 2023. This compilation volume brought together selected content from the first nine online issues, enriched with newly written articles about the Wikimedia movement. It features significant and timely contributions, including feature articles, interviews, and news items originally published in the digital magazine.
The printed edition was distributed not only among Wikimedians but also to a broader audience, including educational institutions and public libraries, aiming to increase awareness of Wikimedia activities and to promote free knowledge beyond the digital space.
Editorial Process
[edit]WikiBarta is a community-driven publication. Contributions are open to Wikimedians, and editorial responsibilities are managed by volunteers. The editorial team selects and edits submissions to ensure that the content aligns with Wikimedia’s values of neutrality, accuracy, and openness.
Impact and Recognition
[edit]Over the years, WikiBarta has become an important tool for documentation and visibility within the Bangla Wikimedia community. It not only serves as a chronicle of local Wikimedia activities but also connects the Bangla community with the global Wikimedia movement. The magazine has been praised for its storytelling, informative articles, and efforts to nurture an engaged and informed contributor base.
Access and Participation
[edit]Readers and contributors can access WikiBarta through:
Wikimedians interested in contributing to future issues can contact the editorial team or participate in open calls for submissions, typically announced prior to new releases.
External Links
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