The University of Fiji presented its first journalism and media studies graduates to the world last week.
UniFiji says all graduates had the benefit of learning their new trade under experienced veteran and current working journalists, who brought decades of experience to the lecture room over the three years of the Bachelor of Journalism and Media Studies Programme.
They say the hallmark of the unique programme is work experience in multi-media settings, including print, radio, television and online media.
They also say the new journalists are work-ready due to their hands-on experience from day 1 of their Bachelor programme.
UniFiji says students are rigorously trained in not only practical media techniques but also in the importance of honesty and integrity in their work.
Students have been trained to ensure that they deal sympathetically and caringly with the people whose stories they are telling and also learned about the reporting methods used in Fiji and how they sometimes differ from those used in other countries.
UniFiji’s Vice Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem says the graduates in Journalism and Media Studies studied the evolving technology in media, knowing that digital media skills are crucial in the world of journalism today.
She says this was extended by their ongoing internships and attachments in the well-known media outlets in Fiji, thus, students have a good understanding of putting the theory into practice.
Veteran journalists teaching in the course said that through many newsroom simulation exercises and tight deadline setting, the graduates also understand and appreciate the importance of delivering news content in a timely manner.
They say the students have learnt to keep abreast of what is going around them locally, regionally and globally and also clearly understand the value of finely honed interviewing skills as well as the importance of great storytelling as being the heart of good journalism.
The Head of Department of the Language and Literature Department, where the Journalism and Media Studies Programme is currently housed, Dr Kamala Naiker says a lot of emphasis was placed on multi-media interviewing and feature writing.
Veteran Journalist Vimal Madhavan, a lecturer in the programme, said that a lot of emphasis was also placed on being a versatile journalist and the ability to work in all contexts.
The Journalism and Media Studies programme emphasizes critical thinking, ethical storytelling, and a deep understanding of media’s role in society.
UniFiji says through the guidance of highly experienced guest lecturers, such as Vijay Narayan, Matai Akauola and Mithleshni Gurdayal, the students also independently went out into the field, covering many issues affecting the country.
They say all those lecturing in the programme agreed that the pioneering graduates bring with them a strong foundation in both traditional and contemporary journalist practices as they are trained to navigate through and contribute meaningfully to the local media landscape.
They add that these graduates also hold knowledge of various genres of journalism —ranging from investigative reports and news articles to features, columns, and reviews.
Professor Shameem says the graduates have been trained to sub-edit, as well as, during their training have produced the University’s student newspaper, UniFiji Watch, under the guidance of Vimal Madhavan.
She says beyond journalism, the Journalism and Media Studies Programme prepares students for diverse career paths, including media campaign management, communication strategy development, speechwriting, and marketing.
She adds students are ready to thrive in both newsroom environments and roles within the private sector and public affairs.
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