By Kumba Leigh
The Leadership of the Sports Journalists’ Association of The Gambia is set to prioritized and considered plans of enhancing the skills and knowledge of sports journalists in The Gambia, with special focus on Ethical Reporting, Advanced Sports Reporting, English for Sports Journalism, Advanced Sports Photography and Sports Content and Design Training. Its first capacity building training for its members scheduled to take place in December, 2024, is a testament to the association’s commitment to promoting professionalism and excellence in sports journalism in the country. Omar Jarju, President of theSports Journalists Association of The Gambia, stressed that it is important they defend professional standards, fundamental values and uphold the ethics of sports journalism.
He said the training aims to improve the skills and knowledge of sport journalists in The Gambia, ultimately enhancing the quality and accuracy of sports reporting in the country. The training will be in two phases set for December2024 and January 2025. “The leadership is committed to elevating the standards of sports journalism in the country and promote the development of the sports industry. This initiative also reflects our commitment to continuously improve and support our members in their professional growth,’’ he said. In a seemingly divided industry, SJAG’S President, Omar Jarju, admonished that it is a must to promote unity and inclusivity for all practicing sports journalists to ensure they build on their strengths, confront and address their vulnerabilities.
Mr. Jarju informed that they have developed five (5) thematic areas of strategic implementation plans and this includes outreach programs of targeted outreach campaigns to engage sports journalists across The Gambia. He went on: “This will involve visits to media houses, universities, and other relevant institutions to present the benefits of SJAG, develop a comprehensive package of membership benefits, including access to exclusive events, training opportunities, and networking platforms, enhance SJAG’s digital presence through a revamped website and active social media channels. A user-friendly online membership registration process will make joining easier, organise annual membership initiatives and offer incentives for early registration, such as discounts on membership fees or training sessions, implementing Revenue Generation Methods (RGM) for sustainability and addressing financial problems, renew and establish partnerships with corporate sponsors, sports federations, and international organizations to secure funding for SJAG activities.”
Mr. Jarju highlighted that these events will not only generate revenue, but also raise SJAG’s profile, and through actively seeking for grants from international bodies, NGOs, and other funding organizations that supports journalism and sports development. ‘‘Additionally,’’ he said, ‘‘capacity building of members in advanced sports reporting is paramount. Implementing regular training programs and workshops on multimedia sports reporting, digital media, sports communication, investigative journalism, and other relevant skills is a priority as it will help facilitate knowledge transfer and skill development’’.
