By Special Correspondent

Renowned journalist and media expert, Miriam Menkiti, has emphasized the critical importance of digital skills for women journalists, stressing that proficiency in digital technology is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for success in the modern media landscape.

Menkiti said this during a seminar organized by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Enugu State Chapter at the NUJ Press Centre, Enugu,

Menkiti, who is a retired General Manager Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria Purity FM Awka made this assertion while delivering a paper on the title “Equipping Women Journalists with Digital Skills for a Successful Career”.

She noted that the media landscape has undergone significant changes in recent years, with digital technology revolutionizing the way news is gathered, processed, and disseminated. According to her, women journalists who fail to acquire the necessary digital skills risk being left behind in the profession.

“As women journalists, We must be proactive in acquiring these skills, and we must support and encourage one another to excel in our careers. The future of journalism belongs to those who are willing to adapt, innovate, and push the boundaries of digital storytelling. Women journalists must take ownership of their careers and seek out opportunities for growth and development in the digital space.”

Menkiti who is also the Executive Director of Women Information Network (WINET), identified some of the essential digital skills required by women journalists to succeed in the modern media landscape such as proficiency in social media, online research, multimedia storytelling, and data analysis with PowerPoint and Excel.

“Digital skills are not just about technology; they’re about storytelling, creativity, and connecting with audiences in new and innovative ways. As women journalists, we have a unique perspective and voice that is essential to the media landscape. We must use our digital skills to amplify our voices and tell the stories that need to be told. The digital revolution has opened up new opportunities for women journalists to take on leadership roles and shape the media narrative. We must seize these opportunities and run with them.

She also emphasized the need for women journalists to be proactive in acquiring these skills, rather than waiting for their organizations to provide training. “Women journalists must take their career development into their own hands by seeking out training opportunities, attending workshops and conferences, and networking with other professionals in the field,” she advised.

A former chairperson NAWOJ Enugu state and guest at the event, 6Maureen Atuonwu encouraged women journalists to be focused in their careers.

First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to our guest speaker, Miriam Menkiti, for taking the time to share her expertise with us today. Your presentation has been enlightening, and I have no doubt that it will inspire and motivate us to take our careers to the next level.

As women journalists, We often have to balance our work and family responsibilities, and we may face stereotypes and biases that can hinder our progress. However, despite these challenges, we remain committed to our profession and to telling the stories that need to be told.

In today’s digital age, it is more important than ever that we acquire the skills we need to succeed in our careers. Digital technology has revolutionized the way we gather, process, and disseminate information, and it has created new opportunities for us to connect with our audiences and tell our stories in new and innovative ways.” She stated.

The Commissioner for children, Women and Gender Affairs, Ngozi Enih represented by Chisom Udoye of the Ministry commended the organizers of the seminar for their tireless efforts in promoting the empowerment of women journalists.

“As a government, we recognize the critical role that women play in shaping our society, and we are committed to providing them with the support and resources they needed to succeed.

The theme of this seminar, “Equipping Women Journalists with Digital Skills for a Successful Career,” is particularly relevant in today’s digital age. As we all know, the media landscape has undergone significant changes in recent years, and digital technology has revolutionized the way we gather, process, and disseminate information.

As women journalists, you play a critical role in shaping the narrative of our society. You have the power to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, to challenge stereotypes and biases, and to promote social Justice.

Earlier in an address, the chairperson NAWOJ Enugu state, Comrade Ngozi Ngene said women women journalists should recognize the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest digital trends to excel in their careers hence the need for this event.

This training aims to enhance our storytelling capabilities, amplify our voice and advance our career. I would like to extend my gratitude to the organizers of this program, including Comrade Nnenna Igwe, Mary Ogbonna, and His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his financial support. She added..

The event also attracted other dignitaries including the chairman, Science, Technical and Vocational school Management Board STVSMB, Dr Ngene.