KATHMANDU, AUGUST 1

The Nepal Forum of Science Journalists (NFSJ) has organized a dissemination program for a Multimedia Storytelling workshop for journalists, held in Sermathang, Helambu, from February 29 to March 4, 2024. The program, supported by the U.S. Embassy, took place in Kathmandu and included 37 participants, comprising journalists, scientists, students, and representatives from the U.S. Embassy.

Speaking at the event, Patrick S. Gan, Regional Environmental Officer for South Asia, U.S. Embassy, emphasized the critical role of the multimedia storytelling workshop in enhancing the capacity of environmental journalists through media literacy training, skill-based activities, and hands-on training. He highlighted the importance of such programs in fostering public discourse and action towards a sustainable future. ''Environmental issues are continually evolving, necessitating that journalists stay updated to report effectively,'' he noted.

Gan also urged environmental journalists to utilize their skills to amplify stories and embrace continuous learning. He expressed his appreciation for the participants' work, encouraging them to maintain their momentum and strive for meaningful change. Gan thanked the U.S. Embassy's public affairs team for its support.

The event's chief guest, former Science and Technology Minister Ganesh Shah, expressed gratitude to NFSJ for organizing the program. He proposed additional initiatives and emphasized the importance of science and climate journalism, particularly in the context of the melting Himalayas and the significant changes that lie ahead. He urged science journalists to cover these critical issues. Apar Podel from the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy thanked Patrick and his team, NFSJ, and the Journalist Fellows for making this event impactful.

Chhatra Karki, Founding President and Program Director of NFSJ, presented on the overall progress of the Helambu Multimedia Storytelling workshop.

NFSJ President Rajan Pokhrel also expressed his thanks to the participants and affirmed that such training would be beneficial for newcomers. A short video was shown to the members of NFSJ, highlighting the workshop's activities and outcomes. Fellow journalists also shared their learning during the workshop.