…Holds workshop for members

By Fatima Muraina

Stakeholders have been urged to commit to advancing gender equity and safety, ensuring that women’s voices are heard, and contributing to a more just and equitable society.

The National President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Hajia Aisha Bura, made this call at a three-day workshop on Gender Equity, Safety, and Gender-Sensitive Reporting for women journalists, held in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Bura, who was represented by the Association’s Vice President, B Zone, Mrs Adeola Adekunle, stated that gender equity and safety are critical concerns within the media landscape. She noted that women journalists continue to face various challenges, including gender-based violence, discrimination, and limited opportunities for advancement.

She described gender-sensitive reporting as essential for ensuring that women’s voices are heard and their experiences accurately portrayed.

According to her, adopting gender-sensitive reporting practices will contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society by challenging harmful stereotypes, promoting gender equality, and empowering women to participate fully in public life.

She observed that this could further help create a more equitable and inclusive media landscape for women journalists.

Bura also disclosed that the programme, in collaboration with the Norwegian Union of Journalists, aims to equip women journalists with the knowledge and skills necessary to advance gender equity and report on gender-sensitive issues effectively.

Declaring the workshop open, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Mrs Ewatomilola Owoeye, appreciated the facilitators of the programme, noting that women benefit from free workshops like this.

She advocated for a supportive environment and professionalism to enable women to thrive.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Photography, Mrs Moturayo Oyedele, said the workshop is important for any group or organisation coming together to learn, as no one knows everything.

She urged participants to make the most of the time available to learn and unlearn what is necessary.

The highlight of the workshop included a presentation on what to do in case of an accident by an officer of the Red Cross Society, Mr Taiwo Filani, who spoke on first aid and the application of the DRs ABC method (Danger, Response, Seek help, Airway, Breathing, and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation).

The three-day workshop, which began on Tuesday, 24th September 2024, will conclude on Thursday, 26th September 2024.