NPC-SS concludes Two-Day T.O.T to Promote Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists
BOR, Jongolei State; February 16, 2024 – The National Press Club South Sudan (NPC-SS) completed a two-day Training of Trainers (T.O.T.) on freedom of expression, access to information and safety of journalists for law enforcement agencies in Jongole state to equip them with the necessary knowledge to uphold freedom of expression, improve communication with the media, and ensure the safety of journalists.
The event brought together key stakeholders to address concerns regarding clashes between journalists and security forces during their work. Notable figures from the Jongolei state government delivered remarks during the closing session, emphasizing the impact of the workshop on state development
Maj. Gen Elia Kosta, the Commissioner for Police, commended UNESCO and NPC-SS for conducting the crucial training in Jongolei state. He expressed optimism for improved relations between journalists and security forces, stating, “I hope that there is going to be a change between us and the media so that we can work together.” Highlighting the value of additional knowledge and expertise gained from the workshop, Maj. Gen Kosta encouraged the police officers to implement the additional knowledge acquired from the training.
Deng Goi, Director of the Ministry of Peace Building, Jongolei state commended the selection of participants and urged that future trainings should consider gender balance. Goi also reinforced that the trainees should apply their newfound knowledge, “As you are going out from here, go and implement what you have learned,” he said. furthermore, he expressed the need for journalists to be well-informed about media laws and ethics while calling for trust between journalists and security officers in the state.
On his part, Mohammed Chuol, Director General of the Ministry of Information in Jongolei state stressed the significance of implementing the training, and called for increased capacity-building efforts for journalists and police, particularly in ethical reporting. He proposed collaborative efforts between journalists and security personnel to share information and build trust. The Director General suggested that cases involving journalists should be reported to the ministry before any arrests can be made, saying it allow clarification and discussion.
The TOT training, facilitated by experienced media veterans including Nicola Mandil and Oliver Modi Philip, covered various pertinent topics such as international legal frameworks, fostering freedom of expression, and effective communication between journalists and the police.
The collaborative initiative between NPC-SS, law enforcement agencies, and UNESCO aims to enhance professionalism and strengthen the relationship between the media and the police in South Sudan.
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