Plateau State Government Trains Journalists through Gender Commission

Rifkatu Kyemut

In a bid to promote gender equality and respective journalism, the Plateau State Government through the office of Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission has recently organized a one day intensive training for journalists in Jos on gender sensitive report.

The event held in Jos brought together media practitioners from various medium and platforms across the state.

The training aimed at equipping journalists with the necessary tools and knowledge to report gender issues with fairness, sensitivity and professionalism, also sought to foster a media friendly environment that supports women’s right, inclusion and the eradication of stereotypes that hinder gender equality.

In her keynote address, the Acting chairperson of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, Barr. Olivia Dazyem emphasized the critical role the media plays in shaping societal perception on gender.

She noted that accurate and balance gender reporting is essential which is the reason the Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang gave the opportunity to train the journalists and Bar. Dazyem applauded him for that.

Resource persons at the event took participants through different sessions; Prince Charles Dickson took the session on understanding gender sensitivity and inclusive language; Jummai Madaki spoke on reporting on GBV, ethics and guidelines while Prof. Plangsat Dayil took the session on gender stereotype and biases.

The facilitators noted that as gatekeepers of public information, journalists must be aware of how their language, image and narrative influence the public understanding of gender roles, adding that their reportage is not just about changing how they report, but about changing lives.

They also highlighted the need for continuous engagement between the media and gender focused institution.

The journalists were challenged to go beyond surface level reporting and investigate deep-rooted issues affecting women and girls particularly in conflict and rural communities.

The participants expressed appreciation for the training noting that the training will further help to improve their reportage.

In her goodwill message, Plateau State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Caroline Dafur reaffirms government commitment on implementing policies that promote gender inclusion and supporting the media in being agents to positive change.

Dafur expressed that the media plays a critical role in driving societal change hence they must report towards building a more inclusive, just and gender balanced Plateau state.

Others who gave goodwill messages were the Commissioner of Information, Hon Joyce Rangnap represented by Rachel Dayigil and other invited guests.