On Friday, December 6, 2024, representatives from the Rwanda Journalists Association (ARJ), the Legal Aid Forum (LAF), and the Pax Press organization engaged third-year journalism students at the Intitut Catholique de Kabgayi (ICK) in a comprehensive discussion.
The session, sponsored by LAF, aimed to clarify the key prerequisites for one to be recognized as a professional journalist.
Albert Baudouin Twizeyimana, the Director of Pax Press, emphasized the foundational principles for becoming a professional journalist.
According to him, to be a professional journalist, you must possess a solid academic foundation in journalism and pursue it as a primary career.
Holding a press card issued by the Rwanda Media Commission (RMC) is another key requirement.
In addition, professional ethics is essential as a journalist must adhere to ethical practices, ensuring impartiality and avoiding harm in reporting.
These requirements align with point 19 of the second Article of Law n°02/2013 of 08/02/2013 Regulating Media which sets the legal framework for journalistic professionalism.
Twizeyimana elaborated on the scope of work for professional journalists, emphasizing roles such as news gathering, editing, and dissemination. These activities should be carried out through established media platforms to inform and influence public opinion responsibly.
Habumuremyi Emmanuel, the Executive Secretary of ARJ, also underscored the importance of upholding professional standards.
He urged journalists to embrace press freedom while ensuring accuracy, evidence-based reporting, and a commitment to fostering societal change. “A journalist must promote professionalism, truth, and collaboration,” he remarked.
Insights from the students
The session shed light on the evolving nature of journalism in the digital age, particularly the role of social media in professional reporting. Students expressed appreciation for the insights shared.
Rosine Igiraneza remarked, “I wasn’t aware of how social media could be leveraged professionally to generate income while adhering to ethical standards.”
Similarly, Innocent Dushimimana noted, “We learned the importance of maintaining humanity in our reporting, especially by respecting people with disabilities and using appropriate language when covering their stories.”
The speakers also encouraged students to harness the potential of their personal social media platforms to practice journalism, rather than waiting for employment opportunities at traditional media outlets.
Following the session at ICK, similar discussions are planned at other institutions, including Mount Kigali University Rwanda (MKUR), East African University Rwanda (EAUR), and the University of Rwanda (UR).