Luanda - The Secretary of State for Social Communication, Nuno Caldas Albino on Wednesday highlighted the importance of training staff to enable the media sector to respond and fulfill the need to disseminate appropriate information to citizens.
The official made the statement at the opening ceremony of the first training for journalists on social protection, promoted by the International Labor Organization (ILO) in Angola, in partnership with the European Union and the Centre for the Training of Journalists (Cefojor).
"With a view to providing a quality public service, training in various areas is an intrinsic need, so that the media are able to respond and fulfill the need to disseminate appropriate information to citizens," Albino said.
According to the secretary, the mission of communicating gives journalists a relevant and important role in the process of transmitting information and shaping social awareness.
Nuno Albino also considered it necessary and essential for journalists to be aware of the phenomena they report on.
He added that the training courses are entirely appropriate and necessary for the profession, since communicating means transforming, educating and forming people.
"The course is a unique opportunity for journalists to absorb knowledge about social protection so that, in a more structured and proactive way, they can publicize and prepare stories on this subject," Albino said.
The head of the European Union's Cooperation Area in Angola, Enrico Strampelli, on his turn said the media should support social protection services to make this issue more immediate and accessible.
The EU official urged professionals in the sector to help strengthen trust, social cohesion and raise awareness of the population on their rights.
Enrico Strampelli said the training aims to improve journalists' levels of knowledge about social protection, not only international standards, but also the current state of social protection in Angola. LIN/OHA/DAN/AMP
