By Yiep Joseph
Government along with its partners enrolled at least 50 journalists in a two-day seminar aimed at reevaluating the importance of journalism in democracy.
The workshop, focused on preparation for the upcoming general election, gathered journalists from various media houses to interact and learn more about election reporting.
The training was organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in collaboration with United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology, and Postal Services.
In his opening remarks, Oliver Mori Benjamin, chairperson of Information Committee in the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, emphasized the crucial role journalists play during elections.
He expressed appreciation for the organizers, stating that the training would equip journalists with essential information for the upcoming elections.
“I give thanks to JICA because they are going to equip our Journalist on how to handle the process of the upcoming election,” he said
The lawmaker emphasized that professional reporting remains critical in elections hence there is a need to train
“To me, there is no democracy without Journalism, responsible Journalism,” he said
“Journalism is the Mirror through which when we put on our shoes, our ties and so on we go to the mirror and see if have we tied them well so that is Journalism it is very important,” he said
Mori urged the Journalists to be non-partisans but rather remain committed to their work that focuses on accuracy.
Tanaka Hiroyuki, chief representative of JICA in South Sudan, emphasized the ongoing support from the people of Japan for the country.
He praised the government for its continuous cooperation with various parties in the media sector and other developmental efforts.
“I am confident that your active participation and us facilitating, the seminar will generate necessary recommendations,” Hiroyuki said.
He encouraged journalists to apply the knowledge gained to help inform citizens effectively.
Doreen Gunne, a UNESCO representative and the master of ceremonies for the day, stated the need for journalists to utilize the knowledge acquired in their reporting.
She affirmed that UNESCO remains committed to collaborating with the government to develop the media sector in South Sudan.