The training, which began on Monday, brings together 75 journalists from various media outlets, including print, online, television, radio broadcasting, and community media.
Underway at the Senegambia Beach Hotel, the initiative was designed to enhance journalists’ understanding of ethical reporting, media regulation and the role of the Media Council of The Gambia (MCG).
The training is divided into three groups, each consisting of 25 participants. Over two-days, each group will receive training on essential topics, including journalism ethics, the Code of Conduct for media practitioners, and the mandate of the Media Council of The Gambia (MCG).
The MCG, established by the GPU in 2018 with support from the United Nation Democracy Fund (UNDEF), serves as an independent regulatory body promoting media accountability and professionalism. It acts as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism, addressing complaints from the public and ensuring journalists adhere to ethical standards.
It also plays an important role in educating journalists on the role and functions of the Media Council of The Gambia (MCG) as an independent media regulator, promotes ethical reporting practices in line with international journalism standards, enhances journalists’ understanding of the Cherno Jallow Charter of Ethics for Journalists, a key framework guiding professional conduct in The Gambia.
By the end of the training, participants are expected to have a deeper knowledge of ethical journalism, the importance of the media code of conduct, and the principles of responsible and transparent reporting.
At the training, Mustapha Mbye, a board member of the Media Council, underscored the need for continuous professional development among journalists. He emphasised that ethical journalism is the foundation of credible reporting and urged journalists to uphold truth, responsibility, and transparency in their work.
“The GPU has developed a Code of Ethics that aligns with international journalism standards. It is crucial for journalists to familiarize themselves with these guidelines and apply them in their reporting. Journalists must seek the truth, provide context, act independently, and avoid conflicts of interest,” Mbye stated.
Bai Emil Touray, Executive Secretary of the Media Council, equally encouraged journalists to critically analyse issues affecting press freedom and strive for quality reporting.
He stressed that media professionals must learn from each other and continually improve the standard of journalism in The Gambia.
Sheriff Saidykhan, Vice President of the GPU, highlighted the significance of the training in equipping journalists with practical knowledge of media laws, ethical reporting, and regulatory frameworks.
“This training is both timely and essential. It provides journalists with a structured framework to uphold ethical journalism standards, reinforcing key principles such as accountability, fairness, accuracy, and impartiality,” Saidykhan noted.
