On Thursday, November 16, 2023, Africa Foundation for Young Media Professionals (AFYMP) in conjunction with the Union Of Campus Journalists, LAUTECH, held a training for students on ‘Reporting For Impact’ at Ghana House, LAUTECH, with about 38 individuals in attendance.
The event was graced with the presence of Yinka Olaito, AFYMP Executive Director, Flourish Oladipupo, AFYMP Head finance and Admin, Busola Oladunjoye, AFYMP Programme/M&E Officer, and Damilola Fajinmi, a broadcast Journalist.
The event started with an introduction by Yinka Olaito. He elucidated how it takes a burning desire and determination to do journalism whilst stating we all have a chance to excel as a journalist if we want to, however, it requires time and a strong self decision. The essence of journalism is to inform and for accountability.
“A starter that wants to grow must learn everyday, as a grower becomes the best in one area “, Olaito added.
Afterwards, Damilola Fajinmi, a broadcast journalist came on board, spoke about the role of indigenous languages in news reporting majorly on health. She elucidated how indigenous languages have helped her to pass her message across to the people.
Fajinmi laid emphasis on the effective use of language birth inclusion, sensitivity, accuracy, relativity, and clarity, during her interactive session.
She also urged everyone not to forget the ethics of journalism. She also added “Do not forget the 5 W’s (what, why, when, where, who) and H (how) of journalism. They will help you sustain a standard.”
The last session was anchored by Yinka Olaitan, who explained the four stages for reporting for Impact, which includes Why is it important, the ethics involved, Know how you tell your story, and the laws involved.
In an interview with Adeyinka Glory, a 200L Anatomy student who attended the event, she shared how the event helped her realize that location is not a barrier in journalism.
In her words, “It has made me realize that location is never a barrier in journalism and it takes confidence, consistency, and information.”
Also, Ajayi Ayomide, another participant shared how the event benefits him. He stated “The program has benefited me in so many ways, it has made me see that no story is small or big to share.”
He added “it also made me see that I can make an impact with creative use of Indigenous languages .” Ajayi added.
