Student broadcasters invited to highlight children

Student broadcasters invited to highlight children’s issues

Young Kiwis running their own school-based radio stations are being encouraged to take part in the International Children’s Day of Broadcasting (7 March).

The UN Children’s Fund-sponsored day, which coincides with Children’s Day, encourages children to express themselves and learn about issues facing children in developing countries.

Student broadcasters in New Zealand can download and broadcast up to eight “digital diaries” in the weeks around the International Children’s Day of Broadcasting.

The audio diaries are made by children in developing countries, with the support of UNICEF, giving their impressions and views about a range of child-related issues.

They cover issues as diverse as child labour, girls’ education, teen marriage, and the impact of malaria and flooding on children. Contributors come from Botswana, Zambia, Kenya, Sudan, Liberia and the Philippines.

UNICEF NZ Executive Director, Dennis McKinlay, says that it’s important for children to be able to voice their opinions and be heard.

“Students all around New Zealand are involved in making their own radio broadcasts through their schools and we strongly support this.

“Not only do these young people learn important skills that they will carry with them through life, but they also have the opportunity to express themselves and air issues important to them. This is a key part of their developing into adults.

“Young people from around the world will be taking part in the International Children’s Day of Broadcasting, including broadcasting the digital diaries, taking part in mainstream media broadcasts, and talking to journalists about their experience as student broadcasters.”

Mr McKinlay says that young people form a key part of the community and have their own views and opinions, but these are often overlooked in the mainstream media.

“Children’s voices are important and their unique perspective on the world should be given more space.

“They have a right to say what they think and have their opinions taken into account, especially when adults are making decisions that will impact them.

“Including children more in the social dialogue also boosts their confidence at expressing themselves and is an important step in their learning about their rights and responsibilities, and becoming active members of society.

“I encourage media organisations to think about ways they can involve young people more in their day-to-day reporting.”

UNICEF is offering an award for adult television and radio broadcasters encouraging them to involve young people in the production and presentation of programmes. The award also acknowledges adult broadcasters who offer the best programming around the day and show a commitment to highlighting young voices year-round.

More information about the International Children’s Day of Broadcasting, including eight ‘digital diaries’ available for download is available at www.unicef.org.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media