In response to the growing challenge of cyberbullying faced by journalists, the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) is set to hold a one-day workshop addressing this pressing issue on social media.
The workshop, a first of its kind, is part of MARAN’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its members, particularly in their roles as journalists within the maritime sector. Cyberbullying has increasingly become a problem, with journalists often finding themselves targets of online harassment. This event aims to arm reporters with the necessary tools to navigate these digital threats while maintaining their professional responsibilities.
The workshop, organized in partnership with the Port Police, will focus on educating participants about the dangers of cyberbullying, with specific emphasis on prevention, identification, and response strategies. By doing so, the association hopes to foster a safer and more responsible online space for maritime journalists.
Scheduled to take place on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at the International Maritime Centre in Apapa, the event will offer practical training on recognizing cyberbullying in all its forms, understanding the signs and symptoms, and developing robust strategies for intervention and prevention. These skills will empower journalists to better manage cyberbullying incidents while upholding ethical reporting standards.
Cyberbullying, defined as the use of technology to harass, intimidate, or threaten individuals, commonly occurs on platforms such as social media, messaging apps, and emails. Journalists, due to the public nature of their work, are often vulnerable to this form of digital abuse.
At the conclusion of the workshop, participants will leave equipped with a deeper understanding of the complexities of cyberbullying and the resources needed to effectively combat this modern-day menace in the context of their reportage.
