Alagi Yorro Jallow.
Fatoumatta: Journalism is a profession that demands rigorous training and certification, just like law, medicine, and engineering. If we insist on thorough preparation for professionals in these fields, we must hold journalism to the same high standard. Mandatory certification is essential. While experience is undoubtedly valuable, on-the-job training cannot be overlooked.
Regrettably, many journalists and media practitioners in The Gambia lack the necessary training. A significant number are politicians and activists pretending to be journalists, undermining the credibility of the profession. Due to insufficient training, many display overt bias rather than upholding the professionalism expected of them. This partisan approach not only erodes the integrity of journalism but also compromises the ability to hold those in power accountable—an essential function of the media.
In The Gambia, many journalists do not have the specific training or expertise required to engage effectively with experts. It is unreasonable to expect inexperienced practitioners to conduct insightful interviews with politicians holding opposing views without proper preparation. As a result, critical issues are often trivialized, and significant moments go unrepresented.
We must advocate for journalism schools to recruit some of the brightest minds and talents. Furthermore, we should encourage specialists in fields such as political science, law, sociology, economics, and environmental studies to pursue one to one and a half years of postgraduate training in journalism. With their strong academic foundations, these individuals will be better prepared to facilitate objective discussions rather than merely pursuing sensational sound bites.
Moreover, we need to critically assess the qualifications of those who educate and mentor journalism students. What standards should guide their selection as trainers? Trainers must possess advanced degrees in journalism or related fields and extensive professional experience. They should be well-acquainted with the latest industry practices and ethical standards. By ensuring that journalism educators are highly qualified, we can significantly enhance the quality of training and cultivate a new generation of competent, ethical journalists.
It is vital to recognize that journalists, like all individuals, have inherent biases. However, they must strive for objectivity in their reporting. To this end, the Gambia Press Union (GPU), media houses, and the University of The Gambia must collaboratively develop a curriculum that merges practical skills with academic rigor, thereby equipping journalists to fulfill their essential roles effectively.
Investing in the training and development of our journalists is not merely beneficial; it is imperative for restoring the integrity of journalism and ensuring that it serves the public interest. A well-trained journalist is better positioned to uphold the values of fairness, accuracy, and accountability, ultimately leading to a more informed and engaged citizenry.
Fatoumatta: In conclusion, professional training is the cornerstone of quality journalism. Let us unite in our efforts to elevate the standards of journalism in The Gambia by prioritizing the education and certification of our media practitioners. By doing so, we can create a media landscape that is credible and trustworthy, fostering a culture of informed and engaged citizens ready to participate in our democracy.
