By Leroy Smith
[www.inewsguyana.com] – The Public Affairs Unit of the United States Embassy in Georgetown on Friday (May 18) opened a Media Professionalization and Development Workshop for media workers and communication students of the University of Guyana.
The work shop which wraps up today (Saturday, May 17) was opened by United States Ambassador to Guyana, Brent Hardt along with opening remarks from University of Guyana head of Communications Studies Carolyn Walcott and journalist, Mark Murray of Capital News.
Yesterday’s discussions focused on the challenges, benefits, roles and the era of New Media, which was presented by Denis Chabrol under the broad heading of “sustainability and Integrity of Journalism.”
The issue of dealing with “sources” and how information shared by them is reported to ensure the protection of identity was also addressed. This particular issue did generate much debate as the questions were many.
Also generating much debate and which is expected to be further ventilated at today’s session is the issue of journalists sending news script before they are published.
The issue of media houses depending on private and public agencies for transportation assistance to and from assignments and receiving other forms of appreciation from public and private agencies and persons, were also addressed by Chabrol.
The media workshop was also addressed by Stabroek News’ Samantha Alleyne, who dealt with the issue of Women in Journalism. The workshop heard of the nasty advances by senior public officials towards female reporters.
The issue of the mode of dress of some female journalists was also raised during Alleyne’s presentation. Journalists were also reminded of the need for them to maintain their integrity and professionalism.
The day’s proceedings wrapped up with presentations from personnel from the Public Affairs Unit of Embassy.
Today’s workshop will see journalists and communication students being addressed by the likes of Gordon Moseley, Enrico Woolford and Carolyn Walcott among others. There will also be an editorial panel discussion to mark the closing.
Totally agree on that dress code of those ‘journalists”, especially the females. News anchors/reporters should not be wearing outlandish makeup on face when on camera. Its very idiotic.