OSCE Centre supports training for young reporters from Kyrgyzstan’s provinces

BISHKEK, 31 May 2012 – A graduation ceremony for some 25 young reporters who have successfully completed a three-month journalism course, organized by the non-governmental organization and news agency Kloop Media, was held in Bishkek today. The tuition for eight students from Kyrgyzstan’s provinces was supported by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek.

The ceremony was attended by Kloop agency staff, representatives of international organizations and potential employers. At the event works by each graduate in various media fields were presented, and the graduates introduced themselves to potential employers from mainstreaming news agencies.

The curriculum of the three-month school was focused on news journalism, including work in online, radio and video. The course consists of five modules, including classes on drafting news items, mastering the Internet and other digital instrumentals of journalism, developing photo skills, and studying ethical principles and legislation.

Anders Troedsson, the Acting Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, said: “The OSCE Centre supports free and ethical journalism as one of the foundations of a democratic society. We believe that this new generation of reporters will set a good example through their future work.”

Bektour Iskender, the director and one of the founders of Kloop agency, and a professional journalist himself, said: “This season the students from the provinces were especially successful, acting as a driving force in the team of Kloop reporters.

We hope that journalism outside Bishkek will gain more significance and develop professionally through their efforts.”

Similar sessions will be held repeatedly during summer with the OSCE Centre’s involvement. The OSCE Centre in Bishkek is taking part in the project as part of its media programme, which is aimed at promoting ethical standards and journalistic principles among reporters.