Recognizing effort, One of the Trainees quoted “no matter how small—strengthens commitment and inspires service. Throughout my career, I have learned that integrity, dedication, and a sincere desire to contribute are the qualities that enable individuals to advance both themselves and their communities”.
A New Chapter for Media Education
One of female trainees added quoting “I participated in a ten-day intensive digital media training program in Dhusamareb, organized by Boqor Bashiir Ciise – Matansom Organization. Instructors covered technical skills like photography and cinematography, my focus was on core journalistic foundations: ethics, the societal role of media, global history, news reporting, and the evolution of social media journalism”.
The program was grounded in professional guidance from seasoned educators like Ustaad Nor Mohamed Diblawe, who briefed students on the responsibilities and realities of the workforce. This vision for an ethical digital media generation provided a vital conceptual framework for the cohort of twenty aspiring practitioners.
Addressing the Media Gap in Galmudug
Despite being the capital of Galmudug, Dhusamareb has historically lacked investment in media development. Private sector engagement has been minimal, and government support for sustainable institutions has been insufficient. For years, journalism graduates faced a landscape with no long-term training centers and few job opportunities.
In this challenging environment, even modest efforts have yielded results. Since 2020, my training initiatives have successfully transitioned several students into local media outlets. These successes underscore the region’s potential despite systemic hurdles.
Elite Academy: A Milestone for Progress
The establishment of Elite Academy—launched by Boqor Bashiir Ciise from Matansom organization in partnership with the Plasma Professional Training Center—represents a turning point. The academy has already trained students in CCTV operations, sign language, and graphic design. Our recent digital media course was a specialized extension for these high-achieving students. Working alongside Teacher Hinda Dahir Jama and a dedicated technical team, we equipped participants with essential competencies in a short but impactful timeframe.
Institutional Validation and Future Prospects
The program concluded with a graduation ceremony attended by members of the Galmudug Parliament, the Civil Service Commission, and local government officials. This event marked a significant shift toward institutional support:
- The Minister of Youth and Sports pledged employment to two top graduates.
- The Chairperson of the Civil Service Commission committed to exploring government pathways for trainees.
- The Director of Galgaduud Media offered immediate roles to the most active students.
Conclusion: The Path Toward Ethical Journalism
As social media replaces traditional broadcasting in Somalia, the risk of unverified content grows. This shift necessitates a new generation of professionals who balance digital proficiency with journalistic integrity. Through continued collaboration between educators and community leaders, Dhusamareb is poised to
develop a credible media sector that truly serves its people
