Fostering a free and vibrant journalism environment requires teaching the next generation of media leaders and journalists, says Nina Kheladze, the development manager for TOK TV Georgia.
"If we want to change the media landscape... one of the most important steps is to work with the youngsters, [the] future generation of journalists,” she said.
Kheladze was one of 10 media educators who took part in ICFJ's Strengthening Journalism Education in Georgia program. The program is designed to equip Georgian media educators with the skills, knowledge, resources and connections to strengthen their pedagogical approach and empower the next generation of Georgian journalists.
Participants took part in a two-week study tour of prominent journalism schools and international news organizations in Washington, D.C., and Phoenix, Arizona, to learn about digitally-driven journalism trends and techniques. They also learned best practices for journalism education and curriculum design from U.S. faculty.
"It's quite important...sharing of experiences, with your colleagues, here and there,” said Mamuka Andguladze, founder of the Media Law Institute in Georgia. “This is a key point for me to see where we are and what are the trends here and what kind of positive experience can I take with me, and I have already many, many good ideas."