LUSUNGU CHIKOWELA
Lusaka
A TEAM of curious and excited learners filled the Zambia Daily Mail offices today as pupils from Emmanuel Adventist secondary school toured the news room, and experienced firsthand the world of journalism and information gathering.
The educational tour exposed the leaners to the different processes involved in producing news, from gathering information and writing stories to editing, printing and publishing content for the public.
During the visit, the pupils interacted with journalists and other media professionals, learning about the importance of communication and gaining deeper understanding of the role media plays in society.
For many of the learners, the tour provided a new perspective on the media industry and revealed the responsibility that comes with sharing information with the public.
Erick Chazingwa, a grade 11 pupil at Emmanuel Adventist secondary school, said the tour helped him understand how media can influence decision-making processes.
“I believe those in power and those seeking power use the media to advocate to the general public, who then make decisions about putting them in power.”
The leaners also highlighted the importance of credible information.
Gillian Solomani, 16, said the media plays an important role of ensuring the public receives accurate information.
“Media gives authentic information that is well researched by journalists, unlike social media which gives information that is not always well researched and could potentially cause harm,” said Gillian.
The visit also gave pupils insight into the processes involved in news production, including the different roles played by media professionals.
Erick Chimpati, 15, said he learnt about the various departments involved in producing news and how journalists ensure stories are written in a way that is clear and easy for audiences to understand.
“I learnt about the different departments involved in making news and how journalists avoid use of jargon when writing news,” said Erick.
Meanwhile Temwani Musongole, 16, expressed appreciation for the Young Mail Publication, saying the platform provides young people with an opportunity to share their voices and perspective.
“The Young Mail is giving a voice to the younger generation through this platform,” said Temwani.
The educational tour gave pupils more than just a behind-the-scenes look at the newspaper production; it helped them understand the power of media in informing communities, shaping decision making and giving young people a platform to express themselves.
