Streamlining of social media news and current affairs outlets for further discussion with key actors
The recently concluded National Conference and Symposium organised by the Department of Public Affairs for World Press Freedom is likely to see recommendations of the symposium becoming actionable outcomes. This is according to a press statement from the Department of Public Affairs.
“The Department of Public Affairs will be moving to consolidate the recommendations of the symposium into actionable outcomes in specific areas discussed, through furtherance of the engagement of the key actors across the local spectrum. Chief among the issues emerging as most urgent, is the need for streamlining of social media news and current affairs outlets within a workable framework in the Fourth Estate.”
On Thursday, the Guyana Press Association issued its concluding remarks on the inaugural event calling for distinctions among social media influencers, public relations, and journalism.
“Journalism cannot be confused or mixed up with specialised content on specific topics or projects. Media houses and government may wish to consider discussing how information products on specific projects and issues can be broadcast or published with the appropriate disclaimer so there is no confusion between paid content and journalism.”
Government also used the two day conference to launch the virtual Guyana Media and Communication Academy. This academy will be facilitated by online learning platform, Coursera. However, the GPA believes training “should be provided through the University of Guyana which is an accredited tertiary institution.”
The conference and symposium which saw key-note participation from the Minister of Home Affairs and Information of Barbados, Hon. Wilfred Abrahams, the Press Secretary in the Office of the President of Suriname, Mr. Alven Roosveld, and UN Resident Coordinator Yesim Oruc.
The event was also attended by more than 400 media and communications operatives and experts from across Guyana.
