Press councils trained young journalists on digital journalism practices
Twenty-seven journalists and students from 20 EU countries were trained on digital journalism practices as part of a Master Class taking place in Brussels from 31 May to 2 June. The training was organised by the Belgian press councils CDJ and Raad voor de Journalistiek, the Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) in the framework of the EU-funded project Media Councils in the Digital Age (MCDA)*.
Journalists and journalism students aged between 19 and 30 came together to share their professional experiences, practices, and ideas on digital journalism. The event fostered an environment where participants could learn from one another and explore innovative approaches from news gathering to publication and impact. The lively discussions covered a wide range of topics, including ethical standards of online news, data journalism, AI in journalism, use of social media, digital tools for news production, publication, dissemination, and digital security.
Journalists and experts from Belgian public broadcasters RTBF and VRT, researchers at ULB and University of Antwerp, as well as a safety trainer provided valuable insights and guidance to the attendees.
Participants highlighted the positive impact of the masterclass on their professional development. The feedback shows the importance of empowering aspiring journalists and cultivating their skills in the digital landscape.
*Media Councils in the Digital Age receives the support of the European Commission (DG CONNECT) and led by a European consortium, which brings together several European press councils (Austria (OP), Germany (TDP), Belgium (RVDJ and CDJ), Finland (JSN), as well as two universities (ULB in Belgium and Ramon Llull-Blanquerna in Spain) and the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ).
