by The much-anticipated opening ceremony of the Media Epidemiology, Infodemiology, Social Behavioral Change and Risk Communication (EIS) Fellowship program took center stage on Monday, November 20, 2023, marking the commencement of a transformative journey for health journalists.
The event, held at the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) Office, 20 Haile Selassie Street, Asokoro, Abuja, brought together the first cohort of participants eager to embark on a unique learning experience.
The ceremony began with a welcome address by the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease and Prevention Control (NCDC), Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, who emphasized the program’s mission to nurture and empower journalist with the skills and knowledge needed to address complex public health challenges.
Adetifa set the tone for the upcoming months, motivating fellows to embrace challenges, think beyond conventional boundaries, and leverage their unique perspectives for positive change, adding that the fellowship aims to bridge the gap between public health expertise and effective media communication..
He emphasized the need for accurate and accessible health reporting, particularly in the current global landscape where public health issues have taken center stage.
Earlier in her goodwill message, the Deputy Project Director, Risk Communication, USAID-Breakthrough Action Nigeria, Dr. Olayinka Umar-Farouk, who also doubles as the Resident Advisor, Media-EIS Fellowship Program highlighted the unique opportunity for fellows to engage with thought leaders, encouraging an open exchange of ideas.
The Resident Advisor outlined the program’s objectives, focusing on skill development, networking, and the pursuit of innovative solutions to public health challenges.
She urged fellows to embrace curiosity and cultivate resilience in the face of complex issues.
AFENET representative, Dr. Ndadilnasiya Endie Wazir shared insights on effective health reporting, emphasizing the importance of accurate information dissemination.
She discussed current public health priorities, encouraging fellows to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding, adding that the fellowship reflects AFENET’s commitment to promoting informed reporting and creating a more informed society on critical health issues.
Also speaking, Ahaziah Abubakar Suleiman, former Executive Director, News, Voice of Nigeria, representing the Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) emphasized the transformative power of media in influencing societal perceptions and policy decisions.
Suleiman encouraged fellows to delve into in-depth research, maintain journalistic integrity, and uphold the principles of balanced reporting.
Distinguished guests, including representatives from the CDC, NCDC, BA-N, AFENET, mentors, field epidemiologists, amongst others graced the occasion, underscoring the significance of the Media- EIS Fellowship in fostering a culture of proper health reporting.
Speaking on behalf of the fellows, the newly elected governor of the fellowship, Mrs Ojoma Akor expressed anticipation for the transformative journey ahead, where fellows will gain deeper insights into healthcare practices, policies, and innovations, ultimately contributing to more informed and impactful reporting.
She assured the organizers that all fellows will abide by every rule guiding the fellowship, and make judicious use of knowledge gained during the fellowship.
Highlights of the event also included group photograph, reading of the code of conduct guiding the fellowship, lectures on Introduction to public health, introduction to epidemiology, key terms and concepts in epidemiology, natural history of disease, amongst others.
The Media-EIS fellowship will offer a unique opportunity for hands-on experience and mentorship, fostering a community of professionals dedicated to disease control and prevention, Infodemiology, social behavioral change and risk communication.
