Program Overview
The journalism industry in Ethiopia has significant gaps in skills and competencies, ranging from basic to advanced skills and specialized knowledge. Factors contributing to these gaps include short retention time, poor quality of higher education, and a poor incentive system. The rise of digital media and one-person outlets has further exacerbated these gaps. There is a lack of professional standards and certification processes, leading to a disregard for basic skills. Additionally, there is a shortage of advanced skills such as data analysis, multimedia production, and investigative reporting.
The future of media lies in multimedia production, and journalists need to adapt to this trend. Specialized skills such as mobile journalism, data analysis, and conflict reporting are seen as important. However, there is a lack of diversified skills and competency gaps, hindering competitiveness in the evolving media environment. Journalism schools often lack instructors with practical experience, resulting in graduates with theoretical knowledge but limited employability.
To fill these gaps, Mersa Media Institute in partnership with DW Akademie, commissioned by the German Federal Ministry of Cooperation and Development, has designed a 12-weeks long intensive training that allows new entrants into the field of journalism to acquire the necessary knowledge, skills and attitude to practice at the expected level of professionalism. This intensive and challenging, but also rewarding training program is taught by a team of experienced journalists and media professionals.
Course Description
The program covers a wide range of topics, including basic journalism skills, such as writing, reporting, and editing; specialized skills, such as mobile journalism, and data analysis; and professional ethics and standard.
The course will employ learner-centered approaches, which emphasize active learning and student engagement. It will be structured around new tailor-made modules, which will focus on a specific topic or skill. Students will be expected to complete a variety of activities in and out of the classroom, including readings, discussions, assignments, and projects. The course will also include opportunities for students to receive feedback on their work from their instructors and peers.
Meet our trainers

Yosef Alayu

Fasika Tadesse

Dr. Getachew Dinku
Testimony
Benefits of the program
The 12-week intensive journalism training program offers a number of benefits to its participants, including:
Hands-on training: You will learn the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a journalist through hands-on training. You will work on real-world projects and get feedback from experienced journalists.
Expert instruction: The program is taught by experienced journalists who are passionate about teaching. You will learn from the best in the business.
Networking opportunities: The program will provide you with networking opportunities with other journalists and industry professionals. This will help you build your professional network and get your foot in the door of the journalism industry.
Career advancement: The skills and knowledge you learn in the program will help you advance your career in journalism. You will be better prepared for a job in the newsroom or as a freelance journalist.
If you are passionate about journalism and want to learn the craft from the best, then this program is for you.
Click here to apply and take your first step to professional journalism.
If you have any questions, Click here