The International Society of Media in Public Health (ISMPH), in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has trained over 30 journalists on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) in Kaduna.
The two-day training which was in commemoration of the global 16 Days of Activism, included journalists from print, electronic, and online media platforms, aimed to enhance their skills and knowledge in reporting on GBV and SRHR.
It also sought to empower the media to contribute positively to social change, particularly on issues affecting women and the girl child.
“The media can play a key role in addressing gender-based violence and sexual and reproductive health and rights,” emphasised Dr Elvis Evborein, a Reproductive Health Analyst with UNFPA and one of the facilitators of the programme.
He urged journalists to use their platforms to amplify the voices of survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
“Participants were trained to identify harmful stereotypes and encouraged to ensure accuracy, accountability, and balanced reportage that is devoid of emotion,” Dr. Evborein stated.
He further highlighted that many perpetrators wield significant psychological, social, or economic power over their victims, leaving survivors feeling helpless and unable to seek help independently.
The Executive Director of ISMPH, Mrs. Moji Makanjuola, called on journalists to embrace responsible reporting practices that protect the identity and dignity of GBV survivors.
“The media remains an indispensable tool in advancing public health communication and contributing to national development,” she stated.
The training reflects a growing emphasis on equipping media professionals to report on sensitive issues effectively while promoting social awareness and advocacy.
PIAK