8 August 2014 - A workshop organized by UNMISS for radio journalists would help them develop skills needed for good reporting, an official at the radio said today in Morobo County, Central Equatoria State.

“My journalists have been unable to develop news stories, conduct successful interviews, and report from the field directly,” said Radio Morobo Editor George Driliga. “(Their) understanding of accuracy, balance and professionalism has been (greatly improved) by this training.”

Some17 radio journalists attended the three-day training, which covered topics like basic principles of journalism, what makes news, radio editing software and writing news stories.

Participants also discussed potential threats or risks to which journalists are exposed when reporting, different reporting mechanisms and international as well as national legal provisions.

Mr. Driliga said the training was critical for boosting both the quality and methods of information delivery, which is vital for improving people’s lifestyles.

UNMISS officials also made presentations on the mission’s role in South Sudan and specific areas like human rights.

Joyce Small, a woman journalist, said she was delighted she had learned several skills, including ethical news reporting, characteristics of a good journalist, editing software and features of good news stories.

“If my life is in danger…I can seek protecting from UNMISS, because journalism is a risky job,” Ms. Small said, after learning about UNMISS’ role in protecting civilians.

Radio Morobo Manager Poverty Alfred Taban said the most important role journalists can play is to help raise “underdogs” in society against oppression.

Mr. Taban noted that journalists needed a good understanding of human rights to skillfully analyze the nature of information they investigate.

“Journalists play a critical role in mainstreaming human rights through the institutions in which they work,” said Isaiah Lauro, UNMISS Human Rights Officer.