StartupSouth Enterprise Development LTD/GTE has successfully trained 50 journalists from the South-South region on the utilization of innovative technology tools for reporting. The training, which took place on Thursday, aimed to enhance the skills of journalists in covering events and ecosystems within the Niger Delta and beyond.
Advancing Tech Reporting Skills
StartupSouth, a prominent advocacy organization dedicated to supporting the development of the startup ecosystem, particularly high-scale ventures in Nigeria’s South-South and South-East regions, facilitated this workshop. The Convener of StartupSouth, Uche Aniche, highlighted that the primary goal of the training was to improve journalists’ proficiency in technology reporting. He emphasized that the initiative would empower journalists to effectively report on groundbreaking solutions, such as those developed by Xend Finance.
Empowering Journalists with Technology
During the workshop, Aniche urged journalists to passionately embrace technological innovations and integrate them into their daily reporting. He stressed that this approach would not only enhance their reporting skills but also promote accountability within society.
Mrs. Chioma Ezenwafor, Head of News at Nigeria Info FM, Port Harcourt, discussed the significant advancements in technology reporting. She underscored the crucial role of accurately understanding and using technological terms in journalism, which in turn helps in publicizing the latest innovations.
“Technology journalism is pivotal in driving innovation and ensuring that journalists can hold the technology industry accountable by asking the right questions,” Ezenwafor stated. She encouraged journalists to specialize in key tech areas, including Fintech, Edtech, Agritech, blockchain, and Health tech.
Leveraging Technology and Data for Compelling Narratives
Mr. Frank Eleanya, a Senior Tech Writer at TechCabal, highlighted the importance of leveraging smartphone apps to access tech innovations. He also stressed the need for journalists to build a strong online presence, focus on personal branding, and engage their audience effectively. Eleanya emphasized the power of storytelling and data utilization in crafting compelling narratives.
Mr. Keni Akintoye, Founder of iBrandTV, advised journalists to identify and adopt tech tools that can enhance their expertise. He pointed out the significance of data analysis in producing high-quality reports, urging journalists to incorporate data-driven insights into their daily reporting activities.
Conclusion
This training by StartupSouth marks a significant step towards equipping journalists in the South-South region with the necessary skills to report on technological advancements and innovations. By embracing these tools, journalists can contribute to a more informed and accountable society, highlighting the transformative power of technology in the Niger Delta and beyond.