BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO
MEDIA Association of Solomon Islands in Partnership with the school of Media and Journalism under the Solomon Islands National University Commemorated World Press Freedom Day under the theme “Information as a Public Good.”
The event provided an avenue where journalists are recognized for their role as a fourth Estate and at the same time were reminded and encourage to report responsibly.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare who was the guest speaker of the event said as the patron of the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) and as the Prime Minister he believes the government has done extremely good work in making sure information is accessible especially since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020.
Sogavare on the same note acknowledges the role of the media in supporting the government to disseminate information to the people
“I must also say that the government is grateful to the media outlets who find the time and space to publish these updates in their papers.
“I want to encourage our press and media to do your duty with the utmost professionalism. Your credibility depends very much on the confidence and the trust that the public has in you.
“The government will always support you, and we expect the press and media to discharge their duties in a professional and ethical manner. At the end of the day, it is the people that we serve. As we mark this day, I call on everyone to ensure the information continues to remain a public good,” he said.
Acting Vice Chancellor, Solomon Islands National University Dr Jack Maebuta said on behalf of the university he is honored to have the presence of the PM Sogavare as the father of the nation.
“To MASI president our sincere gratitude for choosing Lokol Fusion Café as a fitting venue to host this year’s World Media Day. It is a fitting venue madam President because it also gives SINU’s the opportunity to engage and expose its certificate in Journalism and Media students to such event that will be an eye opener for them to the World of media and journalism,” Maebuta said.
Georgina Kekea President to MASI in response said World Press Freedom Day is a very important day for MASI and its members.
“We the members of MASI are happy to be here to celebrate this day here with you. Thank you to the UN agencies for making this possible for all of us tonight, Thank you.
“This year we have changed our style of celebration to mark World Press Freedom Day. We have extended our invites to those who have been supportive of MASI and what we believe in,” Kekea said.
She said MASI strives to strengthen the media industry in the country amidst great challenges.
The event was supported by United Nation Agencies.
