By MRCG
In a significant step towards closing the digital gender gap, the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), with support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ghana, has concluded a comprehensive training workshop in Bo focused on Digital Literacy, Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills, and online safety for women journalists and activist.
The event, held at the FEARS HOTEL in Bo, brought together 25 female journalists, bloggers, and civil society activists from the Southern and Eastern regions of Sierra Leone, with the initiative aimed at equipping these change-makers with the advanced tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively.
The training addressed a critical need for enhanced digital capacity among women driving public discourse. Participants engaged in practical sessions covering a wide range of topics, including: Advanced Digital Literacy: Strategies for effective online research, verification of digital content, and leveraging digital platforms for storytelling and advocacy. Introduction to AI Tools: Hands-on experience with generative AI tools for content creation, data analysis, and streamlining workflow to improve productivity and creativity in their respective fields. Digital Rights and Online Safety: A crucial topic focused on protecting oneself from online harassment, doxing, and gender-based violence. Participants learned about privacy settings, secure communication tools, and legal recourses available to them.
MRCG’s National Coordinator, Dr. Francis Sowa, emphasized the importance of such targeted training. “In today’s world, a journalist or activist’s effectiveness is deeply tied to their digital proficiency and presence. For women, who often face unique challenges and threats online, these skills are not just about professional development—they are about protection and empowerment. By focusing on the Southern and Eastern regions, we are ensuring that the digital revolution does not leave anyone behind.”
He rounded up saying that the workshop was part of a broader ongoing campaign to promote media development, digital rights, and gender equality in Sierra Leone, adding that there were plans to monitor the impact of the training and explore further initiatives to support the participants and expand the program to other regions.
This capacity-building exercise marks a pivotal move towards creating a more inclusive, safe, and technologically adept community of female leaders in Sierra Leone’s media and civil society spheres.
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