The Adil Soz Foundation launches the SJMED project for journalists in collaboration with UNICEF and USAID.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with the Adil Soz Foundation and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is excited to announce the launch of the Solutions Journalism in Medicine (SJMED) project, aimed at improving the quality medical and healthcare journalism in Kazakhstan. SJMED will provide training to 50 journalists, with the top 16 candidates receiving mentorship from experienced professionals to develop medical content.

Importance:

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical need for effective collaboration between journalists and experts in covering health issues. Since the pandemic, misinformation about healthcare has become an increasingly pressing concern. Now, more than ever, informed decision-making relies on accurate and trustworthy information, a domain where journalists play a crucial role.

Project Goals:

SJMED aims to enhance the quality of medical reporting and promote the dissemination of accurate information in Kazakhstan. It strives to empower journalists with greater competence and responsibility, especially crucial in a pandemic era marked by the proliferation of misinformation.

Training and Selection:

SJMED will equip journalists with skills and knowledge to report effectively on healthcare topics. Through webinars, participants will gain expertise in understanding medical issues and crafting compelling narratives within the framework of solutions journalism. Leading experts in medicine and journalism will guide and mentor participants.

Benefits:

SJMED offers the following unique opportunities for journalists:

• Professional Development: Enhanced reporting skills
• Mentorship: Receive guidance and feedback from experienced mentors in the field
• Positive Impact: Contribute to improving the quality of healthcare information in Kazakhstan
• Project Support: Receive assistance with research, fact-checking, and story development
• Legal Aid: Support during publication preparation

Enrolment:

UNICEF[NT1]  invites journalists, bloggers, and freelancer writers who meet the following criteria to apply for participation:

• Have at least three years’ experience in journalism or blogging (experience in covering healthcare topics is a plus),
• Understand and support the project’s goals,
• Dedicate significant time and effort to the project,
• Meet deadlines and adhere to ethical principles.

Applications are open until July 15, 2024.

Contact Information:

For any inquiries, please contact us at [email protected] or +7 777 400 2210.

Format: Online

Location: Kazakhstan

The SJMED project marks a significant step towards fostering free and responsible journalism in Kazakhstan, contributing to a more informed and healthier society. We encourage journalists and media organizations to recommend up to two journalists for participation. Freelancer writers and bloggers are welcome to apply directly.