WORKSHOP: CEMESP Empowers Female Journalists With Computer-Internet Skills

Source: 
The Inquirer
Duration: 
Wednesday, September 1, 2010 - 20:00
Countries: 
Africa
Western Africa
Liberia
PeaceWomen Consolidated Themes: 
Participation
Human Rights
Initiative Type: 
Training & Workshops

The Center for Media Studies & Peace Building (CEMESP) has concluded a three-week Computer Literacy and Internet Journalism Workshop for female journalists in Liberia. The training provided word processing and presentation skills, as well as use of blogging and social networking platforms. CEMESP Executive Director Malcolm Joseph said the workshop was supported by UNESCO International Program for the Development of Communication, and was a part of the CEMESP plan to develop media in Liberia. According to Joseph, CEMESP remains committed to the development of media in Liberia, and is prepared to use new technology in making this process easier and faster.

Speaking during the certification of participants, Deputy Information Minister Norris Tweah lauded CEMESP for its efforts in addressing the "lack of capacity which continue to hinder Liberian journalism." Minister Tweah urged the participants to take the most advantage of the training, noting that "the internet is an invaluable source of communication that all journalists must aspire to"

Speaking on behalf of participants, Akai Awuletey from Power TV welcomed the government's acknowledgement of the limited opportunities available for women, and called for more support for women journalists. Also speaking at the program, Press Union President Peter Quaqua urged the participants to take advantage of the training and become better journalists, while Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS) Deputy Director General Ledgerhood Rennie urged the participants to use the international super highway to effect change in their communities.

CEMESP Board Chairman Abdullai Kamara welcomed the participants into the “peerage of facebook, blogging and internet governance discussions,” and urged them to use their newly discovered alternate platform responsibly, while working to give a voice to women issues and Liberia.