By Luke Destiny Manja
On June 21st, journalists participating in the 2023/2024 Journalist in Residence (JIR) fellowship programme embarked on a transformative journey to MLW’s Chikhwawa office. This visit marked a pivotal moment for these journalists, offering them an immersive experience into the heart of health research.
The Science Communication and Public Engagement department, who manage the JIR initiative, organized this site visit as part of its ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between journalists and the scientific community. The initiative aims to empower local journalists with specialized skills in health research reporting, thereby addressing a critical need in Malawi’s media landscape.
During the visit, journalists were paired with MLW researchers and accompanied them on various research activities. From community follow-up visits to clinical research at Chikhwawa District Hospital, the fellows observed firsthand the meticulous processes involved in health research. They gained insights into participant recruitment, ethical considerations, and the rigorous methodologies that underpin scientific investigations.
Britta Mpata, a journalist from Blantyre Synod Radio and participant in the JIR programme, shared her reflections: “This has been an exciting learning journey for me. I had a different perspective towards health research reporting, however through this program, I have learnt on how to approach news reporting on issues concerning health.”
The site visit was not only an educational experience but also a practical opportunity for journalists to deepen their understanding of complex health issues. For instance, Mpata highlighted her learning on antimicrobial resistance, translating this knowledge into informative news pieces aimed at raising public awareness.
The event underscored MLW’s commitment to nurturing a blend of informed health journalists in Malawi. By facilitating direct interactions between journalists and researchers, the programme not only enhances reporting accuracy but also strengthens the capacity of media professionals to communicate effectively on health matters.
The JIR is a two-year residency programme aimed at equipping local journalists with specialized skills to effectively report on health research, addressing a significant gap in the country’s media landscape. Through initiatives like this site visit, MLW continues to foster collaborations, between researchers and journalists, that drive public health literacy and promote excellent health research reporting.
