HAWANA 2024 CAMPUS TOUR BRINGS TOGETHER 2,000 STUDENTS FROM 16 PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES

 KUALA NERUS, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- The National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2024 Campus Tour concluded on a high note today, having successfully brought together 2,000 students and lecturers from 16 public universities nationwide, throughout the programme that commenced in May.

Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin highlighted the positive impact of the programme, including the provision of high-capacity computer sets and 65-inch televisions, contributed by the Ministry of Communications, which was seen as significantly benefiting university faculties and students.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the HAWANA 2024 Campus Tour, officiated by the Minister of Communications Fahmi Fadzil here, today, Nur-ul Afida said that based on feedback received by Bernama as the HAWANA Secretariat, some recipient universities are utilising their contribution to equip their News Rooms.

In this regard, Nur-ul Afida proposed that the programme be continued next year, and expanded to the polytechnic level.

"This has been a remarkable achievement. With the conclusion of the programme today, I humbly seek the Minister of Communications' approval to continue and expand this initiative next year, perhaps at the polytechnic level... in the fields of photography, graphic design and so on," she said.

Meanwhile, students aspiring to join the media industry must equip themselves, by harnessing available technology and honing their critical thinking skills. This will enable them to effectively filter the information they encounter, ensuring accuracy and reliability in their work, she emphasised.

Meanwhile, Fadzli, in his speech, highlighted that UniSZA has developed a variety of courses focused on ethical news reporting, including Mass Media Writing, Public Relations and Media Writing, and Basics of Journalism. These programmes are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of news production, while also equipping them with the skills to identify, filter, and combat fake news.

"To uphold the quality and integrity of news delivery, the university is dedicated to collaborating with the ministry and industry professionals. This partnership ensures that students receive the best possible exposure, fostering a society which values good journalism ethics and high standards," he said while expressing his gratitude for UniSZA being selected as the venue for the closing of the HAWANA 2024 Campus Tour.

During the event, Fahmi presented laptops, donated by the MCMC, to 85 UniSZA students who were affected by the recent flood disaster.

A total of 250 students from UniSZA, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, and Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, along with their lecturers, participated in today's programme. The event aimed not only to deepen interest in journalism, but also to inspire the younger generation to explore career opportunities within the media industry.

-- BERNAMA