Twenty journalism students from the Catholic University of Kabgayi (ICK) and the University of Rwanda, Huye Campus, have kicked off a three-day training on mobile filming, aimed at enhancing their video production skills using smartphones.
The training, held at Splendid Hotel in Muhanga District, is organized by the Rwanda Media Program (RMP) and runs from May 2 to May 4, 2025. It seeks to equip aspiring journalists with practical knowledge in video creation, audio editing, storytelling, and social media promotion — all using mobile devices.
Speaking to ICK News, trainer Anneli Megner Arn emphasized the value of mastering mobile journalism tools.
“Everyone here will understand how to shoot videos using a phone. With just one or two phones — one as a microphone and the other as a camera — they can produce professional-quality videos,” she said.
“What matters is not owning expensive equipment. I hope they learn a lot about composition and editing and that they enjoy it enough to keep practicing at home, further building their skills and expertise.”
Anneli Megner Arn
Prince Ruzigana, one of the participants from UR, Huye campus, expressed his enthusiasm for the program and shared insights from the first day.
“I’m ready to learn how to film with a phone — not just casual recording as I used to, but doing it professionally and skillfully,” he said.
“On the first day, we focused on shooting video sequences. This included combining shots like close-ups, wide shots, and medium shots in a logical and coherent way.”
“We also touched on syncing audio and video for interviews and learned how to conduct professional interviews with good quality and measured techniques.”
Prince added that the training aligns well with the current needs of the journalism industry.
“This training will be a huge boost in my professional journey, especially now that journalism heavily relies on advanced technology. I believe this is essential knowledge for anyone in this field to work professionally.
“Personally, I’ll be able to create quality videos — gaining this skill is something to be proud of because it means I won’t have to always depend on others for it.” He added.
Sugira Nsabimana Aime Christian, a student at ICK, echoed similar sentiments, saying the training is a game changer for his career.
“I used to make basic videos without really knowing what I was doing, but by the end of this training, I’ll understand editing and filming properly — like someone who has actually studied it. I’ll be able to do it in a visually appealing way and improve my journalism career.”
This isn’t the first collaboration of its kind between RMP and the two institutions. A similar session was held in 2023 at UR’s Huye campus.
The current training is expected to conclude on Wednesday, May 4, 2025.
