The African Climate Policy Centre (ACPC) and its partners have implemented various initiatives to enhance climate change knowledge in Africa. A new training course is being offered for women journalists, aiming to empower them with the skills needed for effective climate change reporting. The course will cover essential topics including climate science, policy frameworks, and human dimensions of climate issues, fostering collaboration and storytelling techniques among participants.
The African Climate Policy Centre (ACPC), in collaboration with key partners, has been instrumental in advancing knowledge and awareness regarding climate change across Africa. Notably, in 2016, ACPC organized a training of trainers event focused on incorporating climate information into legislation and development policies, attracting attendees from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the centre launched an online learning module on Climate Information and Services, which has educated over 6,000 participants globally, including civil society and media professionals. The role of media in communicating climate change is critical, as it facilitates the dissemination of crucial information and knowledge among communities affected by climate-related events. Increased awareness among policymakers aids in the integration of climate change considerations into economic and development strategies. However, many regions still suffer from insufficient awareness and skills to effectively respond to extreme climate events. To address these gaps, the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) are inviting applications from African women journalists to participate in a two-week training course aimed at enhancing their reporting abilities on climate change. The training will focus on the science of climate change, its impacts, and effective reporting techniques, encouraging cross-border collaboration among participants. This virtual training will enable women journalists to significantly improve their capacity to report on climate issues. Through a mix of theoretical lessons, practical exercises, and peer learning, participants will gain insight into storytelling techniques that highlight both data and human experiences related to climate change. The course is accessible to women journalists from all backgrounds and media platforms, with applications being accepted on a rolling basis until the registration deadline.
Climate change poses significant challenges globally, and Africa is particularly vulnerable due to its socio-economic conditions and the frequency of extreme weather events. The ACPC, in partnership with various stakeholders, has been proactive in fostering awareness and promoting training initiatives tailored to enhance the capabilities of individuals and communities in addressing climate change issues. The 2016 training and the subsequent online modules represent a concerted effort to bolster knowledge and skills among journalists and civil society, enabling them to contribute effectively to climate discourse and policymaking. The upcoming training for women journalists aims to strengthen their reporting skills and enhance their understanding of climate change, ensuring that gender perspectives are integrated into climate narratives. This initiative aligns with broader goals to enhance media engagement in climate action, which is crucial for raising public awareness and influencing policy decisions.
The ECA and PACJA’s upcoming training initiative presents a valuable opportunity for women journalists across Africa to enhance their reporting on climate change. By fostering a deeper understanding of the science, policies, and human dimensions of climate issues, the course aims to empower participants to produce compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. This initiative is instrumental in building a more informed media landscape that effectively communicates the challenges and opportunities associated with climate change, ultimately contributing to a more resilient societal response.
Original Source: www.uneca.org
