Jarra News Reporter Heads to China for International Media and Women’s Leadership Workshop

By Staff Reporter, Jarra News

Isatou Conteh has traveled to the People’s Republic of China to engage in a distinguished two-week international training program concentrating on the evolution of new media and women’s leadership. Entitled “Ministerial Workshop on New Media Capacity Building for Women from Belt and Road Countries, the initiative is organized by China Women’s University (CWU) and convenes female media practitioners, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and leaders from nations involved in the Belt and Road Initiative. The workshop aims to enhance participants’ understanding and competencies in contemporary media technologies, digital communication, leadership, innovation, public policy communication, and entrepreneurship. Additionally, it seeks to foster international collaboration, cultural exchange, and women’s empowerment in the domains of media and communication. Established in 1949 and associated with the All-China Women’s Federation, China Women’s University stands as one of the premier institutions in the country committed to advancing women’s education, leadership, and professional growth. The university has provided training for over 1,400 officials and professionals from more than 100 countries through diverse international capacity-building initiatives. 

As stated by the organizers, participants will receive training on emerging media technologies and the increasing impact of intelligent and digital media on shaping communication and public discourse. The curriculum will also encompass subjects such as women’s leadership, communication skills, social media engagement, public policy communication, international e-commerce, and sustainable development. In addition to academic lectures, attendees will engage in discussions regarding China’s developmental strategies, governance frameworks, international collaborative endeavors, and the Belt and Road Initiative. Furthermore, the workshop will analyze China’s achievements in promoting gender equality and safeguarding women’s rights. The training will include study tours and field trips to the cities of Changsha and Ningxiang in Hunan Province, where participants will interact with local leaders, women’s organizations, and community development projects, thereby gaining firsthand insights into China’s socio-economic developments. 

Before her departure, Ms. Conteh conveyed her gratitude to Jarra News management for selecting her to represent both the media outlet and The Gambia at this international gathering. “I feel profoundly honored and excited to represent Gambian women at this significant training event,” she stated. “It offers a unique opportunity to learn from global best practices, enhance my professional capabilities, and establish meaningful networks with women leaders worldwide.” She acknowledged how Jarra News has contributed to her professional development. “I extend my heartfelt thanks to Jarra News Media for affording me a platform to enhance my skills and progress in my career. The support and encouragement from management have significantly impacted my evolution as a journalist and advocate for women and social issues,” she added. Ms. Conteh also expressed her appreciation to the Chinese Embassy in The Gambia for facilitating her involvement in the program. She is confident that the insights and experiences gained from the training will help to fortify media practices in The Gambia, advance initiatives aimed at women’s empowerment, and cultivate greater international cooperation upon her return. Her involvement is anticipated to amplify The Gambia’s representation in global dialogues concerning media innovation, digital communication, and women’s leadership while further reinforcing the enduring people-to-people connections between The Gambia and China. She concluded by thanking the ministry of Information and Broadcasting services and Dr. Ismaila Ceesay for creating these opportunities for media services .