Young media practitioners have been urged to seize the educational opportunities available in Russia to enhance their professional skills and contribute to development in their home countries or strengthen bilateral ties if they choose to remain in Russia.
This call was made during the 2nd Russia-Africa Media Forum for Young Media Practitioners, held from October 21 to October 22, 2024, at the Institute of World Economy Business Hall, RUDN University, Moscow.
The event, organised by the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education in collaboration with RUDN University, brought together academics, educators, and media professionals from both regions to discuss the role of education and communication in strengthening ties between Russia and Africa.
A key focus of the forum was the pressing need to address challenges faced by media practitioners in both regions, including the issues of disinformation and stereotypes. Discussions are centred on enhancing media literacy as a tool to combat these challenges and foster accurate narratives about Russia and Africa.
Speakers emphasised the importance of collaboration between Russian and African media outlets to break down stereotypes and promote more nuanced representations of each region. The participants praised initiatives such as the Sputnik Africa project, which delivers content in English and French, but called for an expansion to include native African languages for wider accessibility and impact.
Cultural exchange through language was another significant theme of the forum. Participants highlighted the importance of teaching African languages in Russian schools and Russian in African institutions. It was noted that some schools in Moscow have already introduced African languages such as Swahili, Amharic, Yoruba, and Arabic, while Russian language centres are being established in countries including Nigeria, Mali, and Cameroon.
RUDN University was lauded for its role in capacity building, having trained over 1,500 African professionals this year through its Centre for Continuing Education. This effort was recognised as a significant contribution to equipping young Africans with the skills needed to drive societal development.
The forum concluded with a pledge to strengthen ties between Russia and Africa through education and communication. Participants resolved to prioritise efforts in combating disinformation, enhancing media literacy, and promoting cultural exchange as a means to foster deeper mutual understanding and collaboration.
This second edition of the Russia-Africa Media Forum reaffirmed the crucial role of education and communication in addressing shared challenges and building enduring partnerships between the two regions.
