Journalists Undergo Online Communication Training

At least fifteen journalists drawn from the print media are taking part in a weeklong training on Secure Online Communications.

The training organised by the Gambia Press Union (GPU), with funding from the Democracy and Human Rights Fund, in collaboration with the US Embassy would introduce participants to methods, strategies and tools in online communication.

In his welcoming remarks, the Chairman at the occasion, Mr. Sweabou Conateh underscored the importance of secure online communication.

He stated that as a journalist, one has to acquire skills as much possible to be able to live up to expectations.

"Journalism today cannot operate without the internet or communication. Online journalism is the fastest method of passing information today," he said.

According to him, it is a challenge but worth while, urging the participants to make the best use of the training.

For his part, Emil Touray, the Secretary-General of GPU said online communication is a new field of communication for journalist as far as The Gambia is concerned.

He said participants will be introduced to the elements of secure online communication to enable them protect their communications online.

"It will also help us to protect ourselves by saving us from hackers," he said. He called on the participants to share the knowledge gained from the session with their colleagues who are not opportune to attend the programme.

Also speaking earlier, Sam Sarr, the Editor of Foroyaa Newspaper emphasised the need for participants to catch up with the trend of communications as, according to him, otherwise one would be left behind.

"Online journalism is moving very fast and one has to take it very seriously," he concluded.