The 2024 RFI Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon Scholarship is now open for applications, continuing to honor the legacy of two dedicated journalists whose lives were tragically cut short in Mali in 2013.
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Short Summary:
- The scholarship aims to support young radio journalists and technicians from French-speaking African countries.
- Applications are open until August 25, 2024, with workshops scheduled for October 2024 in Cotonou.
- Winners will receive training in Paris and recognition on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists.
Launched in tribute to the late journalists Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon, who were murdered on November 2, 2013, the RFI Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon Scholarship for 2024 is seeking talented young reporters and technicians from across the Francophone African landscape. This initiative aims to nurture the next generation of media professionals who can contribute significantly to the field of journalism.
The scholarship program, organized by RFI (Radio France Internationale), now enters its eleventh year, continuing its commitment to support up-and-coming talent in the journalism sector. Each year, the initiative strives to select ten young radio journalists and ten reporting technicians, providing them with invaluable training and experience.
“It is essential to honor the memory of Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon by empowering young journalists to uphold the values they stood for in their work,” said RFI’s spokesperson.
Applications for the Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon Scholarship are officially open from August 5 through August 25, 2024, with a submission deadline set for midnight Paris time on the latter date. The rigorous selection process ensures that only those who demonstrate exceptional promise and commitment to journalism are chosen for this unique opportunity.
Eligibility Criteria
The scholarship is aimed at young talents under the age of 35 who meet the following requisite qualifications:
- At least two years of professional experience in radio journalism or technician fields.
- Currently reside in one of the designated French-speaking African countries, including Algeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Comoros, Congo, Ivory Coast, Djibouti, Gabon, Guinea, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Mauritius, Mauritania, Niger, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Senegal, Seychelles, Chad, Togo, Tunisia, or Rwanda.
The shortlisted candidates will undergo workshops from October 14 to 29, 2024, at the SRTB (Société de Radiodiffusion et de Télévision du Bénin) premises in Cotonou. This comprehensive training, facilitated by RFI’s internal education department, aims to enhance their journalistic skills through hands-on learning and expert mentorship.
Training and Benefits
Winners of the scholarship will be announced in a special ceremony on November 2, which coincides with the United Nations-recognized International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists. This is not only a day of remembrance for Dupont and Verlon but also a call to action to protect journalists worldwide.
Those awarded the scholarship will partake in:
- A fully-funded one-month training program in Paris, designed to deepen their understanding of journalistic practices and industry standards.
- A material grant for two standout candidates who may not receive the scholarship but show promise in their submissions.
- Networking opportunities with established professionals in the field.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit the following materials to apply:
- A completed Participation Form, with all necessary boxes appropriately checked.
- A current CV along with a cover letter.
- A report or sound element showcasing their journalistic prowess (for journalists) or edit/mix or on-air production (for technicians) not exceeding 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
Applications should be sent to the designated email address ([email protected]) before the deadline to be considered.
Why This Matters
The Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon Scholarship is more than just a training program; it represents a commitment to the integrity, safety, and education of journalists in regions where these values are often challenged. By investing in young talent, RFI aims to create a community of ethical reporters who can play a pivotal role in disseminating information, thereby holding power accountable.
This initiative aligns closely with the growing need for advancements in technology, like those championed by AI Article Writing. As technology evolves, it opens doors for aspiring journalists to leverage new tools to enhance storytelling and engagement, pushing the boundaries of traditional reporting. Moreover, ethical considerations related to AI in journalism will play a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of the industry, making awareness of AI Ethics paramount.
In 2023, discussions around the future of journalism increasingly intersect with technological innovations. As seen in the scholarship’s emphasis on training, the need to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing informational environment has never been more crucial. The targeted training in Paris serves as an integral step for those who will go on to report the stories that shape public knowledge and awareness, leveraging both traditional journalistic values and new technologies.
“This scholarship is not just about training; it’s about fostering a safe environment where journalism can flourish,” emphasized an RFI representative at the scholarship’s announcement.
The legacy of Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon continues to illuminate paths for young professionals, encouraging them to embody the perseverance and integrity that these reporters exhibited. One significant aspect of this legacy is the commitment to producing journalism that is not just factual but also profound and transformative.
As applications continue to pour in for the 2024 cycle, those who aspire to be a part of this legacy should take meticulous steps in preparing their entries. The accountability to truth that Dupont and Verlon exemplified remains a guiding light for the candidates.
The opportunity to study and train at esteemed locations such as Cotonou and Paris speaks volumes about the comprehensive nature of the scholarship. It empowers young journalists and technicians to learn from the best, equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate and excel in today’s complex media landscape.
With a growing emphasis on multimedia storytelling and responsible reporting, future applicants must articulate their vision and demonstrate their competencies in creative presentations. This could mean adapting to the changing dynamics in reporting and utilizing technology that will inevitably reshape their profession.
In conclusion, the RFI Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon Scholarship stands as a testament to the innate value of journalistic endeavors, promising to enrich the lives and careers of those dedicated to the truth. Understanding the convergence of technology and journalism is vital, and programs like this will play a crucial role in ensuring its ethical advancement. As the deadline looms, it is crunch time for aspiring journalists hoping to contribute to a legacy that prioritizes integrity and excellence in the media.