Building the capacity of young journalists in the Myanmar print media industry
The private sector print media industry in Myanmar is best characterized by its diversity, with about 400 licensed publications circulating. Of these, perhaps 100 fit into the category of news publications. There is no one single dominant player, with perhaps five to 10 large companies and many smaller operators. The private sector’s reach is however limited mostly to urban areas, particularly Yangon and Mandalay. With the government making encouraging moves towards reform, there is an acute need in Myanmar for well trained journalists to report on, and create awareness about, the challenges and responsibilities involved in a transition towards democracy.
The purpose of this project is to improve the skills and knowledge of beginner and mid-level print media journalists through three 4-week training methodology courses during which a professional, international trainer will train a total of about 36 journalists. The training will enable participants to acquire both practical and theoretical knowledge on subjects such as media law, journalism ethics and the role of the media in democracy. It would also improve the English language skills of participants.