The Role of Journalism Training Institutions in the Changing Media Dynamics of Tanzania
Abstract
This study assessed the role of journalism training institutions in the changing media dynamics of Tanzania. Journalism training institutions are accredited higher learning facilities that offer diploma and degree certifications to those who graduate respectively after a two-to-three-year course of professional training in journalism in Tanzania. Media dynamics refers to the prevalent environment surrounding the media performance in Tanzania. These range from the media laws, policies, the regulatory frameworks, ownership, media pluralism, media diversity, market preferences and communication technologies. This paper is derived from the findings of a research dissertation submitted for award of a Doctorate degree in Mass Communication at St Augustine University of Tanzania. The study employed a descriptive survey design. A mixed method approach was employed to collect data from four news editors from two prominent media houses (Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation and Mwananchi Communications), six working journalists, four journalism lecturers and 150 journalism students from St. Augustine University of Tanzania Malimbe Campus. Interview data was thematically analysed and presented in a narrative form while the survey data was analysed using descriptive statistics with the help of SPSS version 23 and presented in tables, charts, and diagrams. The findings showed that, owing to the fast-paced technological advancement in the media houses, graduating journalists could not adapt smoothly in the newsroom. Moreover, the constant changes in media policies engineered mostly by political pressures were not communicated to the training institutions. Although the training institutions are competent and sufficiently equipped still, they cannot invest in the constant technological shift like in the media. This study recommends that stakeholders employ an intense collaborative effort to bridge the training to industry, such that journalism students are more engaged in a practical media experience during their course of study. Media houses should facilitate field attachment training opportunities to students in order for them to stay abreast of the current technological changes in their profession.
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