M. Meziane réaffirme l’importance de former des journalistes engagés dans la défense des intérêts du pays et de la société
Summary of the Importance of Enhancing Media Competence in Algeria
On Saturday, in Algiers, the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Meziane, emphasized the necessity of bolstering national competencies within the media sector. He highlighted the significance of training journalists who are not only aware of their responsibilities but also dedicated to safeguarding the interests of their country and society. This statement was made during the opening of a training session organized by the Algerian Television aimed at improving the skills of young journalists according to the ethical standards and quality requirements of the profession.
Meziane pointed out the current context marked by aggressive campaigns of misinformation targeting Algeria and its institutions. He stressed that these challenging circumstances call for a new breed of journalists—those who are mature, professional, and committed to representing the interests of their nation without succumbing to pressures or misleading narratives presented under the guise of objectivity and free speech. He urged the need for adequate support for young journalists, directing them toward professional maturity and intellectual independence, which is essential for addressing national and social issues.
The Minister articulated that the modern journalist’s role extends beyond the basic practice of the profession; it now demands a balanced professional training and a sound intellectual foundation. This training equips journalists to better understand local and international dynamics, particularly their political aspects. He underlined the importance of distinguishing facts from narratives and understanding the context of each news item to effectively inform the public, thus serving national interests.
Additionally, Meziane encouraged both public and private media outlets to take advantage of the training opportunities and organize similar sessions for journalists, especially for newcomers to the field. He reaffirmed the Ministry of Communication’s readiness to support such initiatives. He underscored that these training sessions not only enhance professional awareness and institutional culture among the staff of the Public Television Establishment (EPTV), which includes journalists and content producers, but also strengthen ethical adherence, professional maturity, good conduct, intellectual immunity, and a sense of loyalty to Algeria.
Mohamed Baghali, the Director-General of EPTV, echoed the Minister’s comments, noting that Algeria is currently undergoing a vigorous economic, social, political, and cultural transformation that cannot be overlooked by adversaries. He called on journalists and media professionals to take an active role in confronting these adversities.
In summary, the collective goal of these initiatives is to cultivate a new generation of journalists who are equipped with the necessary tools and understanding to navigate the complexities of the current media landscape while honoring the responsibilities that come with the profession. These efforts are crucial not just for individual journalists but for the health of the national discourse and the integrity of the media in Algeria as a whole.