The Media Council of Kenya has begun a three-day election reporting training for interns attached in various media houses across the country under the MCK Industrial Placement Programme.
The Council’s Director for Media Training and Development Mr Victor Bwire noted that the training was important as it would equip the interns with the right skills to cover elections.
“You have a bigger role especially those who will be involved in election reporting. We believe that this training will equip you with the right skills to report professionally in the forthcoming election”, said Mr Bwire.
He further emphasised on the Council’s expectations of the interns, adding that the programme was a holistic one aimed at building them professionally and as individuals.
“We have three expectations from you, conduct yourselves as professionals. This will aid in building your personal brand. Develop your character by building networks and sources and focus your stories on core issues affecting the citizens by practicing solution-based journalism”, stated Mr Bwire.
Speaking on coverage of election issues, Mr Bwire urged the interns to adhere to the stipulated laws governing press freedom and their limitations.
“We also have an obligation to be truthful and factual to our voters, candidates and the country. Our bigger responsibility is around conflict sensitive reporting. Article 33 of the constitution speaks about press freedom and its limitations. You are therefore required to use your agenda setting role wisely when reporting on conflicts”, noted Mr Bwire.
He encouraged the participants to read widely, talk to people when sourcing for stories and avoid competing with people who are not journalists. He asked them to avoid putting emotions in their reporting but rather be fair, balanced and accurate.
Mr David Aduda the lead consultant for the MCK Industrial Placement Programme welcomed the interns and informed them that election reporting training was part of the programme as they were attached in media houses at critical time when the country is just about to hold its General Election.
“This is an important training that will give you guidance and connections needed to cover stories. It will also equip you with the skills to inform and interrogate information especially on figures being thrown around by politicians”, he said.
Mr Aduda noted the challenges journalists go through while covering elections, terming it a “litmus test “for journalists due to the scrutiny and criticism faced during this period.
“During elections, our competencies are tested as journalists. We should be able to give credible and accurate information as we are entrusted to give the right information on the contestants and credibility of the candidates”, said Mr Aduda.
The training will cover topics on election coverage guided by the MCK election reporting guidelines.
This is the second cohort of 165 students under the MCK Industrial Placement Programme that has so far benefited 315 final year journalism and media students in the country.