Afghan journalists and media producers now have more access to training opportunities through U.S. Government support to Nai, an Afghan media training organization. In addition to its offices in Kabul, Nai has opened two new media training hubs in Mazari Sharif and Jalalabad. Two more training hubs are planned for Hirat and Kandahar and will open later in the year.
The initial training sessions offered include a course in community development, which is supported by a USAID grant. Reporters are learning how to network with and engage their communities to develop high-quality localized programming that builds audiences and listenership. Not only does this improve the business model of the stations, it creates the kind of community dialog and interaction that can serve as a stabilizing influence. Other training is available on a fee basis. Topics include basic journalism, radio production, media law, field reporting for television, and safety training.
The goal of expanded media training is to provide Afghans with greater access to quality news and information. The successful growth of independent media businesses in Afghanistan is providing jobs as well as supporting the free exchange of ideas needed in a democratic society.