Skopje, 8 October 2024 (MIA) – A studio as part of its Media Innovation Center has been officially opened Tuesday at the Iustinianus Primus Faculty of Law in Skopje. Its objective is to improve practical training in journalism studies and attract more students.

At the opening event, Dean of the Faculty of Law, Sasho Georgievski, said that this project is committed to the advancement of media education.

“This project has come at a time when we were seriously considering the future of journalism studies. These programs are experiencing a decline, and interest is lacking. I am sure that through the center, we will offer practical work for future generations, with the help of our committed friends and professional journalists who will support us in improving the studies. The project’s goal is more extensive; through the centre’s activities, we aim to raise awareness of the importance of the journalism profession,” he noted.

US Ambassador to the Republic of North Macedonia, Angela Aggeler, pointed out that one of the key aspects of US support, along with the judiciary, is the media. She also called on students to seek proactive mentorship opportunities.

“We all know that a journalist who is dedicated to skills and knowledge is essential. Good journalism is something we can all recognize. The structures and platforms of the media have changed dramatically. Through this studio, profiles of journalists will be created, and future generations will be inspired, encouraging those dedicated to set an example of truthful and transparent reporting,” Aggeler said.

Minister of Digital Transformation, Stefan Andonovski, said this is a very important step toward modernizing studies and journalism in general.

“Today, as we open the doors of this studio at the Media Innovation Center, I want to believe that we are also opening a new chapter in how journalism is studied and taught. It is a turning point that will bring creativity, research and innovation to the world of media,” Andonovski said.

Rector of SS. Cyril and Methodius University Skopje, Biljana Angelova, said that given the fact that journalists are creators of public opinion, professional journalism that is transparent and accountable is essential.

“That is why access to modern tools for journalists and up-to-date digital equipment is necessary,” she said.

Assoc. Prof. Dawn Gilpin from Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, emphasized the importance of understanding technology in today’s world.

“If we don't understand technology, we will be at the service of those who do and use it. Initiatives like this one, along with the entire program, are crucial for building a strong society. It is important for the faculty to use these technologies to enhance the learning process. This center will act as a link between the University, professional journalistic capacities, and the public,” she stated.

Prof. Jasna Bachovska Nedikj, Director of Media Innovation Center at the Iustinianus Primus Faculty of Law, explained the process behind the creation of the studio and shared that the first goal is to enhance journalism studies, while the second is to attract new students.

“We will uphold the European tradition of theory, but we will strengthen it with the American model of practical skills,” she noted.

The studio is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for creating and editing media projects, aimed at enhancing and modernizing journalism studies at Iustinianus Primus Faculty of Law within SS. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, with support from the US Embassy through a joint project with the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University.

Photo: MIA