Media: Stanbic IBTC Hosts Training to Promote Excellence in Journalism
Stanbic IBTC Holdings, a South Africa’s Standard Bank Group member, has recently concluded a pivotal media training workshop to enhance journalistic standards and promote accurate reportage in the banking and finance sector. The event, held at the Stanbic IBTC Towers on Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island, brought together seasoned Journalists from different media houses nationwide.
Dr Demola Sogunle, the Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC, delivered a compelling speech at the event, emphasising the crucial role of accurate reporting in the face of challenges brought about by social media’s increasing influence.
He highlighted the importance of journalistic integrity in navigating the digital landscape while cautioning against the spread of misinformation and cybercrime. Demola’s message was unmistakable: preserving the integrity of facts is essential in an era of information overload.
The training featured a notable lecture by Dr Jekwu Ozoemere (FCIB) of Lagos Business School, “Essentials of Reporting Banking & Finance.” Jekwu highlighted the critical role of the media in covering the country’s banking and financial sector, especially in light of global economic crises. He emphasised the need for journalists to delve deep into fiscal and monetary policies and comprehend financial statements to foster a well-informed public and contribute positively to the national economy.
Toni Kan, the Stanbic IBTC training school facilitator, elaborated on journalistic ethics, advocating for accuracy, balance, objectivity, conciseness, and fairness. He outlined the dangers of misinformation, malinformation, and disinformation, calling for news to be factual, informative, and verified, thereby safeguarding the credibility of journalism in the digital era.
Furthermore, Barr. Deji Toye provided crucial insights into journalism’s legal landscape, focusing on the Cybercrime Act (Prohibition & Prevention) 2015 and its recent amendments. He advised journalists to be aware of their responsibilities and the legal implications of their work, especially concerning cybercrime and electronic communication.
The event concluded on a high note with heartfelt appreciation from Shola Adegbola, a participant who commended Stanbic IBTC Holdings for their impactful initiative. She emphasised the significant knowledge acquired during the event and expressed her eagerness to disseminate these learnings among her peers. Adegbola highlighted how the training was instrumental in elevating journalistic standards throughout Nigeria.
Further enriching the feedback, another beneficiary of the programme (Insert name and designation) shared their insights. (Insert second beneficiary’s first name) echoed Adegbola’s sentiments, elaborating on how the initiative not only broadened their understanding of crucial journalistic principles but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration among the participants. They stressed the importance of such training programmes in nurturing skilled and ethical journalism, which is essential for the advancement of the media landscape in Nigeria.
Stanbic IBTC Holdings remains committed to supporting the development of professional journalism and fostering an informed society through initiatives like this media training. The organisation believes that empowering journalists with the right tools and knowledge is essential for advancing transparent, accurate, and responsible reporting.
