Renowned Papua New Guinean journalist Scott Waide has called for a thorough review of journalism programs taught in universities, asserting that the current curriculum often fails to align with the demands of the industry.
Waide emphasized that crucial aspects of modern journalism, such as utilizing platforms like TikTok and managing social media content, are largely overlooked in academic settings.
During a weeklong training session attended by 13 journalists from Morobe and the Highlands region, organized by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s Media Development Initiative, Waide highlighted the disparity between classroom teachings and real-world practices.
He emphasized the need for a curriculum that incorporates multimedia journalism and investigative reporting techniques tailored to the digital age.
The training, aimed at addressing the gap between academic learning and industry requirements, was initiated in response to the growing demand for better-prepared journalism graduates entering the workforce.
Waide, along with other industry experts, stressed the importance of imparting fundamental journalism skills to young professionals, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the complexities of modern media landscapes.
Through collaboration with the ABC, a specialized training template was developed and refined to cater to the needs of aspiring journalists, whether they are recent graduates or individuals transitioning from other fields with the objective to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of journalism principles and practical skills essential for success in the evolving media landscape.
Meanwhile the call for an overhaul of journalism education underscores the critical need to bridge the gap between academia and industry practices, ensuring that aspiring journalists are adequately prepared to meet the challenges of today’s media environment.