The level of journalism skills in South African media: a reason for concern within a developing democracy?

Abstract

This article draws on results of the South African National Editors' Forum (Sanef) journalism skills audit conducted in 2002. The research purpose was to conduct a national situation analysis of journalism skills among reporters. The research followed Sanef's continuing efforts to re‐position journalism skills training at tertiary level. Results reveal a lack of reporting, writing and accuracy skills among reporters, highlighted both by reporters themselves, and news editors' evaluation of these skills.

Keywords:

• Democracy
• Journalism Education
• Reporting
• Skills
• South African Media
• South African National Editors' Forum (Sanef)

Notes

In terms of sampling procedures, as with the rest of the audit, it should be noted that a single study offers only an indication of what might exist. In effect, the results indicate: This is what may be the case (see Wimmer and Dominick, 1991, p. 34).

Approximate exchange rates in October 2002: GBP 1 = R11.5; EUR 1 = R8.00; USD 1 = R7.00.

A lack of resources resulted in junior reporters being exposed to news situations which were too challenging and too diverse. Subsequently, reporters submit stories without considering all the relevant news issues. This is exacerbated when media activities branch out into new beats such as health, environment and education.