By Eberechi Obinagwam
The Africa Diseases Prevention and Research Development Initiative (ADRAP) has announced the commencement of its first-ever Africa Diseases Reporting Fellowship, (#ADReF) for Journalists scheduled to officially hold in March, 2024 sequel to selection of fellows.
In a statement by Director, Learning and Development, Sarah Yusuf, the ground-breaking initiative aims to empower journalists across the African continent to report accurately and effectively on critical health issues.
According to the statement, the six-week hybrid programme will consist of virtual and in-person contacts with experts in the field of health and journalism.
It said topics to be covered would include Foundations of Health Journalism, Health Literacy, Research and Disease Reporting, Contextual Reporting of epidemics and Pandemics in Africa, Reporting Emerging Infectious and Non-Communicable Diseases (Focus on Ebola and Post-Partum Haemorrhage), and Data in Disease Reporting.
He said: “The fellows would also be exposed to advances in Multimedia and Storytelling and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence in journalism, as well as learning from experiences of other participants.”
Although application to participate in the Fellowship officially opened few days ago, interested journalists still have until the end of December to apply by visiting the designated portal, https://adrap.org/adrap-fellowship/. ”
Contributing to it, Chief Executive Officer of ADRAP, Dr Joseph Enegela, said: “Establishing the Africa Diseases Reporting Fellowship for Journalists aims to elevate the quality of health reporting across Africa, equipping journalists and bloggers with the knowledge and resources necessary to address critical health issues in the region.”
The statement disclosed that the #ADReF programme is spearheaded by Mr Onche Odeh, who brings a wealth of experience to the role of Coordinator. Alongside him, the fellowship boasts the expertise of Odoh Diego Okenyodo, a seasoned development communication expert, who will serve as the Faculty Lead.
The two are to work with Uganda-based Science Journalist, Esther Nakkazi, who brings onboard many years of experience from health reporting, media training and mentorship of younger journalists.
Also, a key member of the faculty is Oga Steve Abah, a Professor of Theatre for Development and Participatory Development Methods Drama and Theatre for Development at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. They shall be providing mentorship and guidance for the Fellows and the project together.
Dr. Joseph Enegela, ADRAP’s founder and CEO with extensive experience in medical practice and public health administration, will play a pivotal leadership role in the project, Sarah Yusuf, the Director of ADRAP’s Learning and Development, oversees the development of the fellowship’s online interaction and presence, working collaboratively with the rest of the team to drive the project’s success while Olanrewaju Olaiya MD, MPH, AAHIVS, PMD-Pro 2, Senior Director of Global Health at ADRAP, will contribute valuable insights and guidance where needed, drawing from his extensive knowledge in the global health sector.
Additionally, Oga Akoh, the project’s IT expert, will provide essential technical support to ensure the smooth operation of the fellowship programme.
Organisations partnering with ADRAP on the project include: Indrap learning limited, Akweya TV Limited, Isu Media Limited, and Nigerian Popular Theatre Alliance (NPTA).
