Training for journalists and students on internet search strategies

University students and representatives from all media houses posing with Stephen Mallinger

Stephen Mallinger, the Regional Information Resource Officer conducted two internet research skills training sessions on June 2-3 in the Embassy’s education center, for university students, government officials, NGO representatives, and journalists.  Participants were drawn from all media houses, including The Point, the Daily Observer, Foroyaa, GRTS TV and Radio, Today Newspaper, and Gambia News and Report Weekly.  The training is part of the US Embassy's outreach programs to the public.  Mallinger took a hands-on approach, using Power Point slides and visual aids to train Gambians in the use of online information resources as free research tools.  Mallinger stressed that “One could learn and acquire knowledge and profession without sitting in the classroom, since various educational books can be accessed on the internet through the use of search engines.  Public Diplomacy Assistant Papa Njie will continue to provide this free training in the future.

The workshop helped to promote professionalism and capacity in the Gambian media and academic communities.  The workshop received extensive coverage on the Gambian national television station, radio stations, and all major newspapers.