Empowering Local Media

Internews has been working in Sri Lanka since 2005, providing information services to vulnerable communities and delivering training to both established journalists and young trainees. Internews works closely with local organisations and the Government to harness the power of media and information to help people develop a peaceful and prosperous Sri Lanka.

Broadcast radio training for students in Ampara

Internews, through its East Media House, carried out its third “Prajahanda” program on radio broadcast journalism for Ampara District Sinhala-medium schools students.  From 25 to 28 of June, 50 students from GCEOL And GCEAL received training and were divided in to two batches, which each produced two-day live radio broadcasts.

The students first received an introduction to radio broadcasting journalism, learning how to write for community radio and produce programmes for radio.  They learned how to use recording equipment and gained IT skills on downloading and using audio editing software Adobe Audition.  Internews also taught them presentation skills and how to use studio equipment.

Students participated in an experience sharing session with Senior Journalists, learning through doing while producing live radio broadcasts.  Students reported that they felt this training was very use full for them apart from theoretical knowledge they gained from the media subject they studied in school as this training included more practical aspects.

The live radio programme were aired from 26 to 28 July on FM 96.1 and  FM 103  and with extensive coverage in Batticaloa, Ampara, Dehiyattakandiya and other places in eastern province.