By Bill W. Cooper
The Women in Media Development (WIMDeV) in collaboration with Amplifying Rights Network has begun the training over 25 journalists from Monrovia on Sexual Reproductive Health Righs (SRHR) reporting aimed at enhancing journalists’ understanding and report on the different health rights.
The three days intensive training, ongoing in Monrovia is focused on value clarification, addressing biases and stereotypes in reporting and understanding the broader implications of SRHR topics.
Giving the overview of the training, WIMDeV’s Executive Director, Siatta Scott Johnson, outlined the objectives and importance of the training stating, “The training will empower journalists to report more accurately and sensitively on SRHR issues.”
Madam Johnson also emphasized, “This is crucial in a society where misinformation and cultural biases often hinder effective communication about sexual and reproductive health and as such, journalists must first recognize their own biases and preconceived notions about SRHR.”
She added that the training also aimed to equip participants with the tools to challenge these biases and stereotypes and ensure that their reports are fair, inclusive, and informative and as well cover various challenges journalists face when reporting on SRHR topics.
These challenges, according to the WIMDEV Executive Director include societal taboos, limited access to accurate information, and potential backlash from communities and traditional leader among others.
Madam Johnson further urged the participating journalists to get fully engaged with the training, emphasizing its significance and said, “Your role as journalists is pivotal in shaping public perceptions and understanding of SRHR.”
“Also, this training is not just an opportunity but a responsibility to enhance your reporting skills and contribute positively to public discourse and by addressing these issues, and we aim to create a supportive environment where journalists can discuss their experiences and develop strategies to overcome these obstacles,” she intoned.
Johnson further narrated that the training also features interactive sessions with experts in the field of sexual and reproductive health, providing journalists with firsthand knowledge and resources to improve their reportage.
She added these sessions are expected to further foster a deeper understanding of SRHR, allowing journalists to convey complex issues more clearly and effectively to their audiences for a more inclusive society.
Meanwhile, the three days training by WIMDeV and Amplifying Rights Network is part of a broader initiative to enhance media coverage of sexual and reproductive health issues as well as create a network of informed and skilled journalists who can contribute to a more informed and progressive discussion on SRHR in Liberia.
