A group of 20 journalism students from University of Rwanda School of Journalism and Communication and three other tertiary institutions last week attended a three-day training aimed at raising their understanding on matters around gender equality.
The training, which took place at Virunga Hotel in Musanze District from October 29-31, was designed to help foster awareness of gender issues among young journalism students, according to organisers.
Students from Mount Kigali University (MKU), Institut Catholique de Kabgayi (ICK), and East African University of Rwanda (EAUR) also attended the training, which was organised under the Rwanda Media Programme (RMP).
RMP is a partnership between FOJO Media Institute and several local partners, including universities and the industry.
Marie Anne Dushimimana, from RMP, said the training sought to empower the trainees with skills related to awareness of gender issues, professional gender reporting, and ensuring the sustainability of gender clubs in journalism schools.
Laurence Mukasibomana, a third-year student at University of Rwanda (UR) and a gender club leader, shared her major takeaways from the training.
“I am now inspired to go out there and help break gender stereotypes and create awareness around gender equality and equity among fellow students and the public in general,” she said.
Gender stereotypes are roles assigned to boys and girls early on and have been blamed for perpetuating gender biases and inequality between men and women.
Ghislaine Mugisha Igiraneza, from EAUR, pointed out that it was important to “continuously encourage inclusiveness in our gender clubs and promote gender sensitivity.”
By Prisca Gikundiro/ The Kaminuza Star