The Media Council of Kenya says it is partnering with 40 media houses to bridge the gap between training institutions and the industry by establishing the Media Council of Kenya’s Placement Programme, which aims to provide upcoming media workers with skills.
The first batch of interns was inducted on Friday last week to familiarise them with the code of conduct and professional principles in various departments of media houses. In contrast, the second group will start in April and run through June.
Chief Executive Officer of the Media Council of Kenya, Mr David Omwoyo, commended the collaboration and urged the successful applicants to use all opportunities presented to them.
He emphasised the importance of the media institution and industry bridging the massive gap between course work and practical experience for journalism students to succeed in today’s world.
“The lack of a purposeful relationship between the media industry and academia in the sector has hampered the attainment of practical industrial exposure, which is critical for journalism students,” added Omwoyo.
Over 800 individuals submitted applications in November last year, but only 300 applicants secured positions.
The programme will benefit final students in journalism and communication from across the country, which will run quarterly for three months per cohort. The students will cover editorial, radio, television, digital, and corporate communication.
The Media Council is currently trying to establish infrastructure and support to promote and strengthen working relationships between Kenya’s media sector and training institutions.
“The council has seen the need to set up infrastructure and extend support to promote and strengthen working relationships between the media sector and training institutions in the country, in addition to its mandate of setting standards and ensuring compliance with those standards,” said Omwoyo.
Students will be paid a stipend of US$ 131,58 to cover their transportation and insurance costs during the attachment. At the same time, partnered media houses will be facilitated to cater for sundries and other expenses incurred by the attaché.
