MAJaC held an orientation for Civil Society Organisations

  MAJaC held an orientation for Civil Society Organisations members as part of the US Embassy Banjul funded project “Strengthening the Media and CSOs for improved democracy”. The training which will run for 3-months, aims to strengthen the capacity of 20 CSO members in proactive advocacy using digital media tools and social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok, instead of staying rooted to the conventional means of reaching their target audiences.  Sang Mendy, the Managing Director of MAJaC, emphasized the importance of CSOs using innovative approaches to promote transparency, good governance, and citizen engagement. “The CSOs are central in helping citizens to be interested in politics; how they are governed. With the right advocacy, outreach and sensitization by the CSO using various forms of media, citizens will begin to demand for their rights, insist on transparency and good governance and or hold the Government accountable for actions and inaction”, Mendy added.  MAJaC is committed to building a network of empowered CSOs and media professionals with the aim of creating a lasting impact on democratic processes and promoting a culture of good governance and accountability.

MAJaC and GAMES Launch UPCIM project

  The Media Academy for Journalism and Communication -MAJaC and The Gambia Media Support -GAMES today Launch ‘Unlock Potentials to Combat Irregular Migration (UPCIM)’ project.    Sang Mendy, MAJaC Managing Director and UPCIM Project Manager, said the project seeks to address the root causes of irregular migration- unemployment, underemployment and hopelessness. It aims to help Gambian youth acquire media-related skills for employment and employment creation to combat irregular migration. “… MAJaC will in this project work with a group of CSOs through a coalition representing youth, migrant returnees, women, families, and more to developing adequate responses to combat irregular migration,” he said. “To do that MAJaC will build the capacity of 16 CSO staff with solid theoretical and practical communication and advocacy skills to conduct massive, proactive and innovative anti-irregular migration sensitisation.”   Marianne Frederiksen, GAMES Project Manager, delved into MAJaC-GAMES partnership which now surpassed two decades. “The ambition is high, but after being partnering with MAJaC and the Gambian press Union for many years, we know that the organisations here is able to create the results,” she stated.   Frederiksen is hopeful that the project would be able to make a little change in the life of some young migrants and build the capacity of MAJAC to be even more successful as a relevant training academy.   Modou S. Joof, Secretary General, Gambia Press Union (GPU), said the Gambia Press Union (GPU) is pleased to be associated with this project, implemented by the Media Academy for Journalist and Communication and the Denmark-based Gambia Media Support (GAMES) to 'Unlock Potentials to Combat Irregular Migration (UPCIM)'. “This is an important project meant to address the challenges of migration that the Gambia is faced with, especially issues of irregular migration,” he said. “It is in line with the GPU’s efforts of building the capacity of media workers to effectively tackle the problems associated with irregular migration and the root causes by raising awareness on the subject.”   Forty-eight (48) Gambian youths would receive an intensive nine-month training in Film & Photography, Communication and Digital Media Production & Management. This will equip them with the necessary skills to start-up their own business or grab gainful employment. For a successful implementation of this project, on top of its flagship journalism programme, the academy would develop a curriculum in Film & Photography, Communication and Digital Media Production & Management.   MAJaC will host and coordinate a CSO Coalition to help raise awareness on opportunities often overlooked in The Gambia.

MAJaC Graduates 38 Students

  The Media Academy for Journalism and Communication- MAJaC graduates two batches of 38 students who have successfully completed the Advanced Diploma in Journalism and Communication. The graduation is the second of its kind which was graced by high profile dignitaries, members of the press and media chiefs.   Professor Prierre Gomez, the minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, while giving his statement on the “Role of Journalism in National Development”, said journalists are essential part of national development. He reiterated his ministry’s committed to supporting journalists and journalism students in the Gambia.   “The best five students of this batch will be will be given full scholarships at B.A or B.Sc. levels should they get admissions into the University of the Gambia school of Journalism”.   Sang Mendy, Managing Director of the MAJaC said MAJaC would continue to strengthen democracy in The Gambia through a broad-based and high-quality professional training for media, communication specialists and content producers.   “Graduands as you bid us farewell, I implore you to carry forth the values instilled in you during your time at MAJaC. As you step into the world of journalism, remember that you are not merely reporters but storytellers, entrusted with the sacred duty of illuminating truth and inspiring change. Let your work be guided by integrity, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of justice. You must continue to keep our flag high”, Mendy highlighted.   Abibatou Ceesay, the best graduating student, who scooped the International Relations, Human Rights Law and Psychology awards, shared some of encouragement with her fellow graduands. “As we bid MAJaC farewell and face this world full of uncertainty, the grass may not be greener on the other side. However, let us be resilient and endeavour to carry the knowledge, skills and experience, and continue to strive for excellence, embrace diversity, and make a positive difference in our lives and the lives of others.”   Ya Sohna Sonko and Omar Ahmadou Touray emerged Second and Third best students respectively.    Other speakers included Gibairu Janneh, the keynote speaker and the Director of Communication and IT, Muhammed S. Bah, Board Chair of MAJaC and Modou Joof, Secretary General of the Gambia Press Union.   MAJaC is renowned for its hand-on training which is anchored on media ethics, analysis, critical thinking and research. The academy is lauded as a “revolution” in journalism education in the Gambia.

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MAJaC Launches project "Strengthening CSO's and Media for improved Democracy and Good Governance."

  • by Abibatou Ceesay
  • January 19, 2024

  The Media Academy for Journalism and Communication (MAJaC)launched a project titled “Strengthening CSOs and Media for Improved Democracy and Good Governance". The project which is funded by the United States Embassy in The Gambia, seeks to build and empower the capacity of 20 Community radio journalists and 20 CSO members on interactive radio programming and proactive advocacy.   Sang Mendy, the Managing Director of MAJaC says, the CSOs and the media lack the capacity to engage in proactive advocacy and interactive content, thereby making it difficult to reach their targets. This project he said, will bridge these gaps by equipping the Media and CSOs to effectively play their watchdog roles. Mendy urged the participants to be committed and actively take part in the trainings.    “We look forward to your dedication, commitment and your desire to learn and share during the cause of the training”, he continued.   Susan Solomon, Public affairs officer at the US embassy Banjul said the media is a pillar of a healthy democracy, while highlighting some of the challenges journalists in the Gambia faced during the former regime. The US Embassy she said, is committed to helping Gambian journalists through various projects, trainings and fellowships.   “We are happy to launch this project. MAJaC is producing leaders, journalists, media experts who will be at the forefront in ensuring equity, democracy, transparency and economic prosperity”.   Other speakers included Modou Joof, Secretary General of the Gambia Press Union, Alagie S. Cham, program officer at TANGO and Amadou O. Bah, Secretary General of Community radios in the Gambia.   Media Academy for Journalism and Communication is committed to building a network of empowered CSOs and media professionals with the aim of creating a lasting impact on democratic processes and promoting a culture of good governance.  

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FIVE MAJaC PRODUCTS SCOOP GPU AWARDS

  • by Abibatou Ceesay
  • December 19, 2023

Five MAJaC products scoop the prestigious Gambia Press Union National Journalism Awards held on the 16th, December 2023. The award is meant to honor the outstanding work of journalists in the Gambia.  Eight MAJaC alumni were nominated, and five emerged as winners in various categories.   Famara Badjie, who won the Migration and Human trafficking reporting award,  expressed gratitude to MAJaC for instilling in him the knowledge and skills in journalism, the fruits of which he is celebrating today.   “BBC has an Academy that produced great journalists in England. If there is any equivalent of that in the Gambia, it's MAJaC. Students learn a lot about the trade practically even before practicing. So, seeing some of us who studied at the school winning awards, can only be a surprise to those who don't know about MAJaC”, Famara Said.   Mariama Cham won the Arts, culture and entertainment award category. Cham, who completed her studies at MAJaC in 2019, currently works at EyeAfrica TV. She attributes her success to MAJaC for shaping her journalism career. “MAJaC is the first institution that has given me that privilege to become the award-winning journalist that I am today. I began my journalism career from the class to the newsroom and it was so tough for me to cope because I had no idea about journalism or how to write stories. MAJaC put me through a rigorous but a very rich curriculum in all aspect of journalism. MAJaC taught me how to become either a print, broadcast and online journalist with the guidance of its professional trainers”, Cham added.   Kebba Jeffang won the Political and Women’s awards while Kaddy Jawo won the Health and Medical award. Their consistent success in winning awards is a testament of the knowlegde gained from MAJaC.    Lamin Fadera, a sports Journalist who works for AfriRadio, clinched the sports reporting award. The annual GPU awards continues to recognize the work of Journalists in the Gambia, many of whom are MAJaC products. During the  2021/2022 GPU National Journalism Award, eight MAJaC alumni were nominated for the awards and five won in the various categories. MAJaC continues to produced students who are excelling in the Media and Communication sector in the Gambia. MAJaC's influence is evident in producing award-winning journalists and shaping the media landscape in the Gambia.  

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Graduand profile

  • by MAJaC Comms
  • November 14, 2023

  Ya Sohna Sonko, has completed an Advanced Diploma In Journalism and Communication at MAJaC. She's undoubtedly one of the brightest students at MAJaC and has taken all her courses with utmost seriousness. She emerged second best student in her Diploma level.    She excels in all her courses but her passion for digital media production is unmatched. Her creativity knows no bounds and reflects through in everything she does.    One of her most memorable moments was during an assignment review session with her peers in the Radio Production class. "I thought I did well, but feedback humbled me. Embracing such moments, even if embarrassing, teaches valuable lessons" she said.    Ya Sohna's advice to her fellow graduands and future MAJaC students is to approach their studies with a level head, fully engage themselves, and practice, whether it's with or without the trainer, putting in the effort to truly grasp the subjects.

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Call for Application

  • by MAJaC Comms
  • November 13, 2023

MAJaC, with support from US Embassy is offering an opportunity for suitable Community radio journalists to apply for a three-month interactive radio training.   This training aims to empower CSOs and Media in a project entitled "Strengthening CSOs and Media for improved Democracy and Good Governance".    Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your skills. Apply now https://forms.gle/Lvx5NFuRE6WFmVBg7   Deadline: 24th November, 2023.

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Migrant Reintegration: A Journey of Challenges and Hope in The Gambia

  • by Momodou Janneh Edited By: Isatou Keita
  • November 8, 2023

In the heart of West Africa, The Gambia, the smallest on the African mainland, has experienced a remarkable transformation amidst the surge of irregular migration that has gripped its youth. These intrepid souls set out in search of sustainable livelihoods and economic opportunities beyond their familiar horizons. While this journey has been fraught with challenges and risks, the return home has illuminated the story of resilience and rebirth.   From 2017 to August 31, 2022, approximately 3,600 Gambians stranded in Libya found their ray of hope through the International Organization for Migration's (IOM) Voluntary Humanitarian Return Programme. A further 1,895 migrants, unable to proceed with their perilous journey, were safely ushered back from Niger during the same period. These returns often stem from the horrors of exploitation and physical abuse at the hands of smugglers and traffickers, which threaten the migrants' very existence.   Upon their return, dozens of these brave individuals embark on a journey of self-discovery, bolstered by the guidance of dedicated mentors and counselors. This holistic support encompasses social and psychosocial assistance, as well as economic empowerment, thus enabling them to reintegrate into society, like the phoenix rising from its ashes.   However, reintegration is not without its trials. The likes of Saidybah Fatty, an erudite economist, emphasize the formidable hurdles that The Gambia faces in ensuring the successful reintegration of these migrant returnees. Their return often leaves them with meager savings, a financial paradox that impedes employment prospects and the initiation of businesses. Consequently, this can give birth to poverty and social exclusion, with a shadow of stigma and discrimination casting a pall over their attempts to rebuild relationships.   Yet, Mr. Fatty underscore the role of organizations like IOM in addressing these reintegration challenges. He exclaims, "IOM plays a pivotal role in steering migrant returnees through the labyrinth of challenges, championing humane and orderly migration for the greater good of all."   The psychological well-being of returnees is a distressing chapter in their reintegration saga. Mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, can cast a long shadow over the prospect of employment, the launch of businesses, and the rebuilding of relationships with family and friends.   The successful reintegration of these resilient souls has ramifications far beyond the individual; it reverberates through society. It uplifts their income, diminishes their dependence on social assistance, unlocks doors to saving and investing, and allows them to send precious remittances to their families. This virtuous cycle bolsters the labor force, spurs tax revenues, quells crime, fosters social harmony, and enriches societal well-being.   Take the story of Kemo Colley, a migrant returnee, a father of two who left the Gambia in 2015; he faced the chilly winds of stigma upon his return. Society often casts a dubious eye on returnees, perceiving them as individuals who could not complete their journey to Europe, relying on voluntary assistance to find their way back. This unfounded perception erodes their self-esteem and well-being.   In a bid to provide wings to these phoenixes, IOM typically furnishes integration packages designed to reignite their lives, making them employable and resilient. These packages are as diverse as the individuals are themselves, addressing economic, social, and psychosocial facets.   Colley, from the support received, now owns a poultry farm in his village in Siffoe. Kemo employs up to three people in his farm with his eldest son in charge of the finances. From the savings, Colley feeds the family and pays for the school fees and other necessities of the family and still with some to save.   “I have initially thought I failed when I came back, following the stressed from the reason I left but my situation now is a dream come true, I don’t think I will be able to have such if I was still there” Colley added.   Yet, it is vital to remember that not all returnees have the privilege of these reintegration packages. His story is similar to some of his mates, who are now in different ventures making a living for their families but still a different case for most of the underprivileged ones who see the reintegration efforts as means of discouraging them from embarking on the journey.    Mustapha Sonko, a Migration Officer at the Gambia National Youth Council, recognize the complexity of the challenge. Financial constraints, the labyrinth of reintegration information, high unemployment rates, and limited resources all conspire to compound the complexity of their journey.   The Gambia National Youth Council according to sonko joins hands with partners to ease the reintegration process. IOM, in particular, stands as a beacon in addressing migration-related issues. Their partnership extends through training, vigilant monitoring, and engaging sensitization programs aimed at deterring irregular migration.   Mustapha Sonko eloquently underscores that the benefits The Gambia can reap from triumphant reintegration programs are a formidable goal to achieve. All too often, these programs wear a cosmetic facade, with limited government resources earmarked for the reintegration endeavor. The success of The Gambia's voyage in this realm hinges on the depth of their engagement with the European Union (EU). Sonko said, “The government must give migration the attention it deserves, even perhaps birthing a dedicated ministry, while prioritizing the implementation of coherent migration policies.” Source: IOM Facebook page IOM's role in The Gambia shines through a comprehensive approach that addresses not only the economic but also the social and psychosocial needs of migrants and their communities. This multifaceted assistance encompasses medical and psychosocial support, the nurturing of small businesses, support for education and vocational training, and referrals to other available services.   The journey of migrant reintegration in The Gambia has been seen by many as a labyrinth of challenges, yet it carries the torch of hope, promising transformation for both individuals and society as a whole.