Signis

Media Education Seminar: "Media is for Everybody"

Honiara, August 6 2006 (Catholic Communications Solomons) - In the Solomon Islands, 24 participants from four schools gathered for the 3rd Media Education Seminar, held at Don Bosco House of Prayer, from 4th to 6th August, 2006, organized by Catholic Communications Solomons.

The documentary film People’s Power, produced in the Solomon islands now in its last stage of production was screened, to create awareness on the environment and bubbling volcanoes of Savo.

Jordana Langridge led the students through a variety of interesting animated exercises at the end of which they highlighted Punctuality, Peer pressure, Teenage pregnancy, addictions, family values, environment, etc as some of the issues they are concerned about. Joe Vidiki, Catholic Communications personnel animated the students to script and record programmes on the theme: ‘Family: source of unity and peace’. Walter Turasi, Assistant Coordinator of SIDT Community Media, reminded the participants of the proper care and use of the equipment. Luke Johnston, Programme Manager, SIDT outlined the need to prepare well for any shoot - with a Screenplay and Shot list, and enabled them understand the richness and power of film.

The students were delighted to have the opportunity to handle a video camera and shoot a few sequences. They were able to later view their productions. They look forward to conveying their issues and concerns through film in the coming session.

“Media is for everybody in the community, be they from the city, town or village. Getting familiar with community based media is very essential for our young people” stated Walter Turasi. Walter has been involved with Radio drama and now with video programmes, was impressed with the creativity of the students was happy to share his skills with them.

“Community Media gives the people an opportunity to hear their voices, showcase their talents and express their creativity. It opens up areas for people to hear and see others from their world. It gives people an occasion to learn and share”, stated Luke Johnston as he shared his views on the Media. He was pleased to see the activities conducted and inspired by the talents and interest of the young as they went about their simple productions.

“It is good that we notice the wonder and beauty of things around us. Often we take these for granted. Focusing on them through the media will enable others appreciate the positive that surrounds us,” said Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb, at the end of the programme.

SIGNIS