Dhaka : The United States Agency for International Development Agency (USAID) on 12 December launched the first in a series of workshops to enhance the quality of development reporting.  This training will be provided to journalists working on social and economic issues in Bangladesh.  The first workshop was held in Dhaka at the Daily Star Centre and included ten journalists from print, electronic, and online media.  Trainers included seasoned journalists like the New York Times stringer Zulfiqar Ali Manik, President of the Diplomatic Correspondent Association of Bangladesh Angur Nahar Monty, and subject matter experts from USAID.

This first workshop focused on Gender Based Violence aligning with the campaign for the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” observed annually from November 25-December 10.  The journalists discussed the important role media plays in combating Gender Based Violence and effective techniques to report on social issues. 

USAID Mission Director Derrick S. Brown inaugurated the workshop and said, “As journalists, you can directly communicate to the general public and raise awareness on what’s happening around the country and the world.”  “That is why” he added “USAID believes it's essential to provide journalists with the right tools and techniques to perform their job powerfully.”

Through these workshops, USAID will deepen Bangladeshi journalists’ understanding of key development issues, enhance their ability to identify newsworthy stories, and write analytical reports.  Reporters will also become familiar with USAID-funded development programs in Bangladesh.  USAID will host similar workshops in eight divisions across the country.