In framing public discussions and debates mass media, including print, radio, television, internet and social media play a crucial role. Journalists have the power to be the voice and shape public and policymakers’ perceptions. WaterAid believe there is a dire need for young journalists to play a meaningful role and have the courage to discuss, debate, and investigate WASH issues.
The Fellowship launched in 2019 with an aim to find young and energetic journalists who have the will to set themselves apart by demonstrating courage and commitment to the community. Thirteen journalists from leading media channels of the country got this fellowship opportunity to take a deep dive into Bangladesh’s multifaceted WASH landscape for four months.
During this time, the journalists engaged themselves through knowledge-sharing workshop. Alongside the workshop, the journalists also went into field visits to Saidpur, Gaibandha and Rangpur. Through the field visits, they observe sludge and waste collection at community in Saidpur, visited health care facilities, FSM plant, observe trail composting and public toilet in Saidpur.
In Gaibandha, they assessed HCF pre-situation and also visited WASH in school project at Palashbari. Here they received the opportunity to have discussion with adolescent girls, meeting with SMC / teacher, meeting with local administrations, education department to get direct exposure and information about WASH situation in the communities.
The journalists published reports on their experience at the end of the fellowship and hence graduated as ‘fellows’ from the Young Media Fellowship on WASH 2020-2021.
Young Media Fellow 2020-2021 are Mr. Ibrahim Khalilullah, Mostafizur Rahman Mithu, Sadia Rahman, Jenia Kabir, Khan Al Mamun Islam, Tabassum Maisha Mona, Kohinur Khyum Tithila, Mostafizur Rahman (Mahim Mostafiz), ABM Ehsanul Gani, Md. Bahauddin Al Imran, Md Rashed Khan Lemon, Md. Khalliur Rahman, Md Sharful Alam, ABM Ehsanul Gani.
