Applications are now open for the 2024 African Investigative Journalism Conference (#AIJC2024) Fellowship. This fellowship invites practicing investigative journalists under the age of 30 to apply for the opportunity to attend #AIJC2024, which will be held at Wits University in Johannesburg from October 30 to November 1, 2024.
About The African Investigative Journalism Conference
The African Investigative Journalism Conference (AIJC) is one of the largest and most significant gatherings of investigative journalists on the African continent. Organized annually by the Journalism Department of the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in Johannesburg, South Africa, the conference brings together investigative journalists, editors, media professionals, academics, and students from across Africa and beyond.
Key Features of the AIJC:
- Workshops and Training: The conference offers a wide range of workshops and hands-on training sessions. These cover various aspects of investigative journalism, including data journalism, digital security, storytelling techniques, and the use of advanced investigative tools.
- Panel Discussions: AIJC hosts numerous panel discussions where seasoned journalists and experts from around the world share their insights and experiences. These panels address pressing issues such as corruption, human rights abuses, environmental degradation, and other critical topics that are often the focus of investigative journalism.
- Networking Opportunities: The conference serves as a hub for networking, allowing journalists to connect with peers, share ideas, collaborate on cross-border investigations, and build lasting professional relationships.
- Showcasing Investigative Work: AIJC is also a platform for showcasing some of the most impactful investigative journalism pieces produced across Africa. Journalists have the opportunity to present their work, discuss the challenges they faced, and explore the impact of their investigations.
- Fellowships and Scholarships: Each year, AIJC offers fellowships to a select group of young and promising investigative journalists. These fellowships provide full funding to attend the conference, including travel, accommodation, and meals. Fellows are chosen based on their commitment to investigative journalism and their potential to contribute meaningfully to the field.
- Focus on African Issues: While the conference has a global outlook, it maintains a strong focus on African issues. It addresses the unique challenges faced by African journalists, such as political pressure, limited resources, and the need for greater collaboration across borders to tackle continent-wide issues.
Importance of AIJC:
The AIJC plays a critical role in strengthening the practice of investigative journalism in Africa. By providing training, resources, and a platform for discussion, it helps to empower journalists to hold power to account, expose corruption, and shed light on issues that are often underreported. The conference is a vital space for learning, collaboration, and innovation, fostering a community of journalists who are committed to the highest standards of their craft.
Overall, the African Investigative Journalism Conference is not just an event but a significant movement that contributes to the development and sustenance of a free and independent press in Africa.
Requirements
Applicants must commit to producing at least one piece of investigative journalism (online, print, or broadcast) inspired by material gathered at the 2024 conference. This work must be published within three months after the conference concludes. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of identity to verify their age.
Benefits
The fellowship will cover major travel expenses, including flights, visas, shuttles, accommodation, and meals.
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is September 10, 2024.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the African Investigative Journalism Conference Fellowship.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the African Investigative Journalism Conference (AIJC) stands as a pivotal gathering that champions the cause of investigative journalism across the African continent. Through its diverse array of workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, AIJC equips journalists with the skills, tools, and connections necessary to uncover the truth and report on critical issues that affect the region.
The conference’s emphasis on African stories and challenges, coupled with its support for young and emerging journalists through fellowships, underscores its commitment to fostering a robust and independent press in Africa. As AIJC continues to grow and evolve, it remains an essential platform for empowering journalists to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and justice, driving positive change through the power of investigative journalism.
