Accra: DW Akademie Ghana has inaugurated a five-day training workshop focusing on gender-sensitive reporting for journalists, under the African Media Integrity and Resilience (AMIR) Programme-Ghana. The European Union-funded workshop began on Monday, September 7, and aims to conclude on Friday, September 11.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Cecil Ato Kwamena Dadzie, Project Manager for AMIR at DW Akademie Ghana, emphasized that the training is intended to equip media professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to challenge harmful stereotypes, reduce bias, and promote fair representation of all genders in public discourse. The initiative also seeks to strengthen journalists' ability to identify and address gender stereotypes in their reporting.
Madam Sheila Mysorekar, Senior Consultant at DW Akademie Germany, highlighted that gender-sensitive reporting is not solely about covering women's issues, but about enhancing the quality and fairness of journalism for everyone. She stressed the importance of understanding the power dynamics between men and women in society and reporting on these issues in ways that contribute to positive social change.
Madam Mysorekar noted that journalists often unintentionally reproduce societal stereotypes, adding that even seemingly innocuous statements can reinforce negative perceptions about gender roles. She cited the stereotype that 'women cannot drive' as an example, pointing out that such narratives persist despite the achievements of many women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
She warned that repeated stereotypes could discourage women and girls from pursuing certain careers, as they might begin to doubt their abilities in those areas. This, she explained, could prevent society from benefiting from the talents and skills women could bring to fields such as politics, science, and other professions.
Madam Mysorekar called on journalists to be more aware of the narratives and stereotypes surrounding gender roles and to ensure that their reporting does not perpetuate these perceptions. She stated that responsible and gender-sensitive reporting could help raise awareness, challenge harmful beliefs, and contribute to building a more inclusive society.