African Media Practitioners Attend Intensive Broadcast News Training in Kolkata India

Communications and media professionals from 11 African countries have gathered in Kolkata, India, for a three-week intensive training program focused on Producing Broadcast News for Development Communication. The initiative aims to enhance skills in storytelling, media production, and cross-cultural collaboration, targeting journalists working in development-focused sectors.

The training is hosted by the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), a premier Indian institution known for its emphasis on creative and technical media education. Participants will gain hands-on experience in television news production, digital content creation, and media management, equipping them with the tools to deliver impactful stories to diverse audiences.

In his opening remarks, Professor Samiran Datta, Vice Chancellor of SRFTI, emphasized that the program blends modern production techniques with practical journalism training. He highlighted the growing importance of development communication in addressing societal challenges such as health, education, and environmental sustainability.

The program forms part of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) initiative under the Government of India. Through ITEC, India supports capacity-building programs for professionals from partner nations, promoting knowledge exchange and professional growth. Professor Datta noted that the training strengthens Africa–India media collaboration by fostering networks and sharing expertise in media practices.

Participants will engage in practical exercises, field reporting, and digital storytelling workshops. The curriculum also includes sessions on ethical journalism, audience engagement, and innovative broadcasting technologies. These skills aim to empower African media practitioners to produce high-quality content that informs, educates, and drives positive social change in their home countries.

The three-week program reflects India’s commitment to supporting development communication globally. By bringing together media professionals from across Africa, the initiative fosters cross-cultural understanding, strengthens professional networks, and promotes collaboration in addressing shared development challenges.

This training marks a strategic step in building capacity for African journalists, ensuring they are well-equipped to leverage modern media tools while promoting accurate, impactful, and culturally sensitive reporting. It highlights the growing role of international partnerships in shaping the future of media and development communication.