REIGNITING THE SIGNIFANCE OF JOURNALISTIC SKILLS IN THE 21ST CENTURY: AN UPSKILLING WEBINAR

Anyone has the capability to become a skilled writer or a talented poet, but not anyone can exercise the patience and dedication that a journalist has. A jack of all trades and a master of none, journalists have driven themselves to deliver the latest updates, locally and globally, while also influencing the masses through their words alone.

In the 21st century, where technology has mostly dominated the field of journalism, it is an important reminder to equip students with the skills of a capable writers to prevent and overcome the existence of fake news. 

With the cooperation of the Bachelor of Arts in Communication, the Regina Student Publication of Notre Dame of Midsayap College conducted a webinar that was held on November 30, 2022, with the theme: "A Journey through 21st Century Journalism: Reigniting Journalistic Skills and Capacitating Student Writers Towards the Exercise of Press Freedom Through Upskilling Webinar."

Miss Amelia Abdul, the wise Editor-in-Chief of the Regina Student Publication, had opened her speech with the confidence of a leader governing the student paper, which had served as an eye-opener for every student in the institution.

Sir Ian Jay C. Sunio, LPT, MAED, delivered an informative discussion about the various and significant roles that journalists play in a society easily influenced by the media. His delivery served merit, especially to students who bear the responsibility of leading the next generation over their shoulders. On that note, during the part of the webinar where there is a question and answer portion, the students were eager and enthusiastic to learn from him.

To conclude the webinar, a certificate of appreciation was awarded to those who were present, given by the news editor of the Regina Student Publication, Ms. Sandra Daud. It was soon followed by a short speech given by the Associate Editor-in Chief, Sir John Dane Fontanilla, ending the webinar with uplifting remarks.

As aspiring writers, it is fundamental that we not only take pride in our duty to convey the most important messages to the mass, but also that we be able to take responsibility for what these messages say. It is with hope that the webinar has taught these young student journalists the capability of a journalist in the 21st century.