With an opening cocktail, AUBG welcomed the 5th cohort of media representatives who will embark on the established initiative English for Journalists. This year, 15 dedicated journalists from Blagoevgrad and the region embark on a year-long journey to enhance their English language skills and refine their journalistic practices.
“I’d like to say congratulations for embarking this journey,” said Provost Mininger. “But also thank you to all of you because for our university, one of our core values is to be able to contribute immediately and be part of Blagoevgrad and the region.”
The program offers participants two semesters of intensive English language instruction tailored to their individual needs, facilitated by AUBG’s English Language Institute (ELI). Alongside their language studies, journalists will participate in engaging workshops led by national organizations, covering crucial topics like:
- Disinformation and Fact-Checking: Mastering the tools to debunk misinformation and navigate the complexities of a modern media landscape.
- Media Regulation and Ethics: Understanding the legal and ethical frameworks that guide responsible journalism.
- Journalism Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of accuracy, fairness, and accountability in storytelling.
- Local Journalism: Deepening their understanding of local issues and amplifying the voices of their communities.
- Safety for Journalists: Equipping themselves with essential knowledge and skills to operate safely in challenging environments.
The program is co-organized by the Center for Information, Democracy, and Citizenship and the English Language Institute at the American University in Bulgaria. It is sponsored by the US Embassy in Bulgaria Public Diplomacy Small grants program.
Public Affairs Counselor at the U.S. Embassy, Jeff Weinshenker, remarked: “We are proud to support AUBG and our other partners in programs like this, which are playing a vital role in Bulgaria’s increased resilience against disinformation and in helping journalists acquire the skills they need to be even more capable practitioners in their field.”
The English for Journalists program has proved to be a pivotal step in fostering journalistic excellence and promoting informed dialogue in Blagoevgrad and Bulgaria.
