The media fraternity has been called upon to support female journalists especially by encouraging them to apply for programs that can help them excel in their careers.
This call was made by Hon. Mary Okurut Karooro, the minister for general duties in the Prime Minister’s office, during the graduation of 25 women that have participated in the Women in News program and the Media Management online course.
The program which was sponsored by the Norwegian government through their Embassy in Uganda, is courtesy of World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers.
The minister urged these ladies to appreciate the opportunities given to them through this program.
“The opportunities you have been accorded are very rare including the national gatherings, each one of you were allocated a personal coach, face to face coaching sessions have equipped you with necessary skills where you are now able to draw your career roadmaps and take charge of your careers” the minister said.
She added that everyone is an architect of their destinies. Minister Karooro urged the women to endure, know what they want and stay resilient.
She gave an example of politicians who hold on even when the storm is too much. “We all have our storms in life, and we have withered through them.”
Adding that men in Newsrooms should give today’s graduates a chance to succeed and provide a leveled ground where opportunities are provided equally. She told women to demand for higher salaries and more space in the Newsroom.
“Without fear or favor, ask for what is yours. You have got what it takes and I know that when given an opportunity, you will not disappoint. Do not let anyone to discriminate against you based on the gender or to underrate you in terms of your ability to manage of the Newsroom” she added.
Today’s graduating group is the first of its kind in Uganda, and the second class will apply for the same program in October.
She later handed over certificates to all graduates who underwent a 7 months training and studied a Media Management Foundation E-Learning Course.
