By Botan Times Staff
International Expertise Meets Local Journalism
In a significant move to strengthen local media capabilities in Turkey, the Digital Media Association has announced an intensive training program funded by the British Embassy. The program, set to take place in Diyarbakır, will bring together ten leading media professionals from prestigious international outlets to train local journalists in digital media skills.
World-Class Training Structure
The comprehensive program draws inspiration from Oxford University’s workshop model and The Guardian Foundation’s training approach. It will provide hands-on training in various aspects of modern journalism, including photojournalism, video production, podcasting, and social media management.
Leading Industry Trainers
Among the notable trainers are Reuters photojournalist Sertaç Kayar, BBC correspondent Hatice Kamer, and Deutsche Welle social media editor Hozan Adar. The program will also feature experts from Voice of America, AFP, and other major international media organizations.
Innovative Learning Approach
“This initiative represents a significant investment in local journalism,” says Murat Bayram, program coordinator at Botan International and Digital Media Association. “Each participant will not only receive intensive training but will also produce five pieces of content that will be published in both their own media outlets and Botan Times.”
The program features a unique three-tier structure: intensive workshops, one-on-one mentoring sessions, and a three-month guided practical period.
Sustainable Financial Model
Participants will receive a fee of £100 per published piece, creating a sustainable model for quality journalism. While the primary language of instruction will be Turkish, additional support will be available in Kurdish and English for those who require it.
International Best Practices
The initiative incorporates Harvard University’s periodic learning strategy, as recommended by Assistant Professor Zuzan Barwary. “The resulting content will form a collection of 50 pieces that will serve as educational materials for future journalism training,” explains Bayram.
Application Details
The program will be hosted at the Botan International office in Diyarbakır, though participants from other cities will need to arrange their own accommodation. Applications for the 20-hour intensive program close on December 12, 2024. Successful applicants will be required to attend all sessions and commit to producing five pieces of content between January and March 2025.
This program represents a significant step in strengthening local media capacity in Turkey, combining international expertise with practical, hands-on experience in modern journalism techniques.
