It was a first in many ways. It was the first time Inspirasi College had partnered with a local university.
It was the first time Inspirasi college held a two-day media training workshop for local journalists.
And it was the first time 11 young journalists had the opportunity to learn not only about the skills they will need in their careers but the ethics and code of conduct they need to true professionals.
And going by the feedback, the partnership between Inspirasi College, Dr. Soetomo University (Unitomo) and the National Press Association (Dewan pers) was a resounding success. In the two-day workshop, officially called the Journalist Competency Test (UKW), the journalists were put through several tests and scenarios that would help them upgrade their skills.
One aspect that was most appreciated by the participants was the quality of the examiners. “The examiners are really qualified and experienced and provided explanations correctly so we do not adopt bad habits,” said Esti Widiyana, from Detik.com.
The smooth implementation of the UKW was also an important point for the participants. Participants expressed that they were able to complete all the modules well, thanks to the examiners’ clear directions and the conducive classroom atmosphere.
“The small number of journalists in the class created a conducive atmosphere,” said Dhiya Aulia from IDN Times. This made it easier for participants to focus on the exam, while still feeling comfortable and not rushed.
In addition to the examiners, the committee also received praise for their friendliness and professionalism. “I enjoyed participating in the UKW, the committee was also friendly and easy going,” noted Fatichatun from Detik.com
Dr. Dra. Zulaikha M.Si, head of Communication Science Study Program, Faculty of Communication Science, Dr. Soetomo University and Secretary of the UKW Unitomo Institution, was pleased with the smooth running of the workshop, noting that there were no complaints.
She added that the partnership between the three parties was critical in the success of the workshop. “I would like to thank Inspirasi College for hosting the workshop. It is critical that private organizations play a role in helping our young journalists upgrade their skills and professionalism because ultimately it benefits society as a whole.”
M. Salsabyl Adn from Jawa Pos said: “Thank you to Inspirasi College for hosting the workshop. We hope that there will be continued support for media professionals.”
On the whole, it was a successful and rewarding exercise for all parties. The positive feedback from both the participants and the examiners proved that such partnerships generate positive outcome for all parties.
One participant summarized her experience briefly but concisely: “From the organizers to the examiners, the best.” “The UKW was not only a place to test competence, but also a space for journalists to learn and develop, strengthening the standards of quality journalism in Indonesia.”
And the final good news is that all 11 journalists passed the competency test and are ready to pursue their careers!
Chairman of the Foundation at Inspirasi Schools Sidoarjo, Joey Pattinasarany, said that Inspirasi College was proud to support local communities such as journalists to improve their skills.
This program, he continued, aims to support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on quality education and promoting peace, justice and strong institutions.
