A group of media students from Institut Catholique De Kabgayi (ICK), a private higher learning institution founded in 2002 by the catholic Diocese of Kabgayi, in in Muhanga District, embarked on an enlightening educational trip aimed at gaining practical insights into the operations of media houses.

The trip is in line with a programme aiming to strengthen the ability of Rwandan media and journalists to become independent and financially sustainable and to produce high quality public interest journalism.

While visiting The New Times, on Friday, May 10, Jean Felix Umuhire, the public relations officer at ICK, said the students delved into the inner workings of various media outlets, seeking to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

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He said: "The trip provided students with a unique opportunity to learn from industry experts and professionals. Visits to prominent media institutions such as Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA) and The New Times offered firsthand experiences across different departments, enriching their understanding of media production, journalism ethics, and newsroom dynamics.”

Norah Nayebare, a second-year student, expressed her appreciation for the practical exposure gained during the trip. She emphasized the importance of meeting professionals in the field.

She said: "Meeting professionals in the field and experiencing the reality of media operations, firsthand, has been invaluable. Understanding the risks and challenges we may face as future media practitioners is essential for our growth and preparedness."

Norah also said that the trip exceeded all her expectations as she gained a deep understanding of how things are done in the industry, improved her skills, and now feels fully prepared to embark on her journey in the media field.

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Darius Shumbusho, another student, surpassed expectations by providing a comprehensive overview of media house operations.

"Learning about the intricacies of balancing news coverage was eye-opening. It highlighted the critical importance of presenting information in a fair and unbiased manner, ensuring a comprehensive and accurate portrayal of events."

Rene Irafasha, another student, believes the media industry has seen remarkable development compared to previous years.

He said: "We've witnessed an innovative journey that promises a better future for all involved. While we acknowledge the strides made, it's important to recognize that challenges may arise along the way. However, with resilience and adaptability, we can overcome these hurdles and continue to progress."

Overall, the educational trip proved to be a transformative experience for the participating students, offering them valuable insights and practical knowledge that will undoubtedly shape their future careers in the media industry.