Journalists belonging to a group known as West Africa Solution Journalism Hub has held a virtual training on the need to ensure responsible journalism in the continent and the world at large.
The training touched on four pillars of educative topics which included;
1. RESPONSE TO PROBLEMS AND HOW IT HAPPENED
2. PROVIDES EVIDENCE OF IMPACT NOT JUST INTENSIONS
3. PRODUCE INSIGHT THAT CAN HELP OTHERS RESPOND.
4. POINT OUT ANY LIMITATIONS OF THE RESPONSE.
The session started with an introduction of group members from various Countries including, Nigeria, Ghana , Liberia and Gambia.
Speaking at the event Mr.Lekan Otufodunrin, Nigeria, who is a Journalist and Media Career Development Specialist ,doubling as The ExecutiveDirector, Media Career Development Network noted that,The Solutions Journalism Network’s Africa Initiative is seeking applications from individuals who want to start (or upgrade) a solutions journalism-focused project or art project that is based in, or focused on, Kenya and Nigeria ETC.
He said,The Solutions Journalism Network is an independent, non-profit organization that advocates an approach of solutions journalism, an evidence-based mode of reporting on the responses to social problems.
He revealed that ,Solution journalism focuses on reporting solutions rather than problems.
Journalists could help stimulate the need for more research, says Lekan.
The organization,beyond regular training, offers coaching of journalists, especially students and new employees to sharpen their skills in any area of interest in the profession.
Also,West African Solution Journalism help journalists and other media professionals achieve their career goals and aspirations despite the various challenges faced on the job.
On her part Madam Oluwaseun Durojaiye, a facilitator for the event and founder of Social Voices Made it known that the reasons for Solutions Journalism are for accountability case, and it is not for public relations, advocacy, and hero worship.
Source: Broadcastergh.com/Ayisah Foster, Ghana
