To enhance the skills of its members and embrace the ever-evolving media landscape, the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) last week held a 2-Day Capacity Training Workshop focusing on new media and online journalism.
Executive Director of Media Career Development Network, Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin, who facilitated the training shared various insights on digital skills traditional journalists should acquire and how to maximise online platforms for sourcing and publishing information citing examples from his over 35 years of multi-media practice experience.
At the end of the knowledge-packed workshop, the participants admitted that apart from being a refresher course, the training was an awakening to the reality of new trends in media practice.
Echoing the statement by the publisher of Sahara Reporter, Omoyele Sowore that “Journalism is not changing; it has changed It’s you that has not changed,” Otufodunrin outlined the unfolding fast-paced world of news dissemination, noting that clinging to the past could leave them in obscurity.
“Your old skills and experience are acknowledged, but they will no longer be enough to practice the profession. The industry is no longer confined to traditional ‘He said’, ‘She said’ narratives; it demands a broader perspective,” the former Editor, Online of The Nation Newspaper stated.
According to him, more than ever before, digital-savvy journalists and content creators are disrupting the status quo.
“Old business models are crumbling as new platforms emerge, reaching national and global audiences. The audience has become more sophisticated and informed, challenging journalists to up their game. Being able to write is no longer enough,” he emphasised.
The workshop also highlighted new forms of writing and the imperative of using modern media tools such as smartphones, apps, social media platforms, Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality.
“To survive, journalists had to evolve into multimedia literate and savvy professionals, no longer confined to the boundaries of print or broadcast alone,” Otufodurin advised.
The Changing Face of Journalism
Otufodunrin drew attention to new forms of journalism including Data Journalism, Solutions Journalism, fact-checking and collaborative reporting which according to him will enhance the quality of reporting beyond routine reporting of issues.
He stressed the importance of producing multimedia content for various platforms beyond texts, and photos to include infographics, videos, audio, and maps.
Maximising Opportunities
To be more than just traditional reporters, the Media Career Specialist encouraged the participants to maximise opportunities for career development by being aware of available training opportunities by various local and international media support organisations.
He said they should attend seminars, workshops, webinars, conferences, masterclasses, and fellowships; follow relevant organisations and institutions online and subscribe to their newsletters.
“As a strategic move to secure a strong foothold in the ever-evolving field of journalism, understanding available awards and their benefits is another important facet as well as becoming a paid specialist in your focus coverage as a reporter,” the former Sunday Editor of The Nation suggested.
Commenting on the training, the participants said they acquired new knowledge, perspectives and strategies needed to thrive in the profession.
Chairman of the League, Mr Olusegun Koiki said the training has changed his approach to the journalism profession, especially in the era of new technology as there are several ways to become accomplished.
“The conference has been beneficial to me as an online publisher. Aside from that, it has been a good one because of the power it has given me in the area of content, professionalism and how to maximise the benefit of online publication,” Aviation Editor of New Telegraph, Wole Shadare stated.
The LAAC’s initiative is not just a workshop; it is a pivotal moment in the evolution of journalism in Nigeria, ensuring that its practitioners are well-prepared to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.
