Change narrative on reportage of gender issues – NAWOJ

By Olufisoye Adenitan

Participants at a two day workshop on gender Equity, Safety and Gender sensitive reporting have been urged to change the narrative on reporting gender issues in the news and newsrooms  

The National President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Hajia Aisha Bura, stated this at a two-day workshop on Gender Equity, Safety, and Gender-Sensitive Reporting for women journalists, in Akure.

Hajia Bura, who was represented by the Association’s Vice President, B Zone, Mrs Adeola Adekunle, noted that changing the Narrative on gender equity reporting and safety within the media landscape would change the perception of the people on the cultural stereotypes. 

She noted that women journalists continue to face various challenges, including gender-based violence, discrimination, and limited opportunities for advancement.

Bura also disclosed that the programme, in collaboration with the Norwegian Union of Journalists, aimed 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 Ondo State Governor on Research and Documentation, Mrs Ewatomilola Emiola- Owoeye, advocated a supportive environment in the media landscape and other sectors for women to thrive.

Mrs Ewatomi Emiola- Owoeye  said Women journalists adopting gender-sensitive reporting practices would contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society by challenging harmful stereotypes, promoting gender equality, and empowering women to participate fully in public life.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Photography, Miss Motunrayo Oyedele, urged participants to make the most of the time available to learn and unlearn issues that would help them to amplify gender issues in the news.

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).

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