Innovative Approaches to Journalism Education Highlighted at 2024 AJEN Conference
The 2024 African Journalism Education Network (AJEN) conference has brought together key stakeholders from across Africa and beyond to explore transformative strategies in journalism education. The event, held at the Aga Khan University, emphasizes equipping students with skills to produce high-quality, ethical, and sustainable journalism.
The conference features prominent academics, journalists, and policymakers who are addressing critical issues impacting media and society in Sub-Saharan Africa. Key areas of focus include sustainable journalism education, gender reporting, climate change education, and the evolving media landscape.
In her opening remarks, AJEN Vice President and Dean of the Graduate School of Media and Communications at Aga Khan University, Prof. Nancy Booker, underscored the importance of preparing future journalists to handle global crises. “The future of journalism is more vital than ever,” she stated. “At Aga Khan University, we are equipping our students with the skills needed for this new era.”
German Ambassador to Kenya, Sebastian Growth, highlighted the global challenges facing journalism, including technological advancements, shrinking media spaces, and economic pressures. “Collaborative efforts are essential to address these challenges,” Growth said.
The conference also featured notable speakers such as Prof. Franz Kruger, AJEN President and Associate Researcher at Wits University; Dr. Margaret Hughes, Chair of the World Journalism Education Council; and Hendrik Sittig, Director of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Media Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa.
Discussions at the conference emphasized the need for balanced gender reporting and adapting journalism to address emerging issues. Pam Sittoni from the Thomson Foundation Board and Prof. Sisanda Nkoala from the University of Western Cape both advocated for more inclusive and responsive journalism practices.
Climate change emerged as a central theme, with Prof. Nicholas Oguge from the University of Nairobi’s Centre for Advanced Studies in Environmental Law stressing the importance of integrating climate change education into journalism curricula. Oguge called for strategies to help journalists navigate the climate crisis and raise awareness on environmental issues.
The conference is fostering dialogue on how journalism can contribute to sustainable development, promote environmental awareness, and hold governments and corporations accountable.
As the event progresses, participants are committed to strengthening journalism education in Africa and ensuring that journalism remains a crucial tool for promoting democracy, justice, and sustainable development.
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