By Obiabin Onukwugha
The convener of Startupsouth, a Startup and Entrepreneurship ecosystem development and advocacy organisation, Mr. Uche Aniche, has called on Nigerian journalists to constantly develop their skills with modern technological tools to build and create brand for themselves through compelling storytelling.
Aniche made the call while delivering his opening address during the just concluded two-days virtual Reporting Tech Workshop for journalists which was organized by Startupsouth.
According to Aniche, Startupsouth started in 2016 to bridge identified gaps in the tech ecosystem because of the important role technology plays in economic development.
However, he lamented that the tech ecosystem in the two regions have been under-reported despite hosting a lot of startups and called for collaboration from journalists to showcase the challenges in the South/South and South/East regions.
Speaking on the “Role of Media in Fostering Innovation”, one of the resource persons at the workshop and Editor-in-Chief of Techeconomy, Mr. Peter Oluka, said the media plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation by providing information, community building, shaping public perception, influencing policy and investment and as well creating a platform for exchange of ideas.
Another resource person, Mrs. Chioma Ezenwafor, emphasised that tech journalism goes beyond reporting new technology to the impact such technology has on the culture of the people and the economy.
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Ezenwafor, who is the Head of News, Nigeria Info FM, Port Harcourt, also harped on the need for journalists to carve a niche for themselves.
She mentioned some of the technologies that are currently shaping the journalism space and society to include; Fintech, Edtech, Agritech, blockchain and Health tech.
“Tech shapes society, drives innovation and holds power to account,” she stated, adding that most stories make more impact when told from a human angle.
On his part, a Senior Tech Writer in TechCabal, Mr Frank Eleanya, urged journalists to build a strong online presence, personal branding and audience engagement aside from storytelling.
He noted quality above speed as a distinguishing factor for unique and compelling story telling.
He urged journalists to employ data analysis and develop the relevant knowledge and key words in creating compelling narratives in their stories.
Startupsouth Development Ltd/GTE is a startup ecosystem development and advocacy organisation inspiring founders in building high scale ventures in Nigeria with specific focus on the South/South and Southeast regions.
