Local News Fundamentals
Free of charge. Selection is competitive.
The project has been implemented by the Media Development Foundation with the support of UNESCO Ukraine and the Embassy of Japan in Ukraine. The programme is a part of wider UNESCO's efforts to support the safety of journalists and press freedom in the country.
Local News Fundamentals is a comprehensive 9-month program aimed to equip journalists not only with practical skill sets and knowledge but also innovative ideas on how to develop one’s newsroom and reach audiences.
The program covers a wide array of topics, including the fundamentals of journalism ethics, newsmaking for digital platforms, methods of information verification, investigative journalism and editorial management.
Participants will develop basic knowledge of working with texts, audio, video, graphic designs and learn to create multimedia content.
The course implies a separate module dedicated to journalism in times of war. It consists of topics like war reporting, covering life on occupied territories, safe work procedures at a newsroom, documenting war crimes, and more.
The program also introduces a module on managing editorial offices. Participants will be able to learn the basics of organizational budgeting, digital safety, content planning, and talent retaining.
A special emphasis is put on working with audiences, community building, and facilitating fruitful discussions on complex topics.
Apart from the theory, students are encouraged to develop their projects to put new knowledge and skills into practice.
The course culminates in a 1.5-month paid internship at an editorial office, which provides students with work experience, helps them enrich portfolios and grow as professionals.
For whom?
For journalists who have basic prior experience working for a media outlet, liaise with local audiences, and look for opportunities for their media.
Duration:
August 29, 2024 – April 2025
Format:
Online and offline.
Twice a week, in the evening, plus intensives.
Price:
Free of charge. Selection is competitive.
Certificate:
After successful completion of each course, participants receive a certificate issued by Kyiv Media School, which is a proof of the acquired skills and competencies.
Curriculum
7 modules:
Fundamentals of local journalism
Digital-first newsmaking
Multimedia newsroom operations
Wartime journalism
Investigative and slow journalism
Editorial management
Audience development and distribution
Capstone project:
During the course, participants must develop a project implementing systemic changes at a newsroom and enhancing its work outcomes. It could imply the launch of a new department, or product (investigations, news feed, a podcast, etc.), opening a job position or developing a platform. Launching a brand-new media outlet could also become a learning objective.
Participants must have a raw project idea at the application stage, which will be elaborated on throughout the course with mentors and lecturers.
Internship:
A 1,5-month internship at top-notch regional and national-level Ukrainian media. The course alumni will have an opportunity to work on articles together with their mentors. All interns will be awarded scholarships.
Speakers
Free of charge. Selection is competitive.