Guild member Joe Watson (pictured), agricultural editor of the Press & Journal, is the British representative on executive committee of the IFAJ (International Federation of Agricultural Journalists).
After meetings at the 2010 Congress in Belgium, here he provides some feedback on IFAJ initiatives and news.
Global initiative
The IFAJ is also behind a three-year pilot project to link journalists from developing countries with those in other nations. It would include a repeat of the master class initiative pioneered at the recent congress in Belgium.
This involved agricultural journalists from several African nations playing a full role in the Congress and spending some time in the classroom to discuss issues. The proposal is still being worked up but could include a press tour with workshops to Africa for IFAJ members, as well as developing a pool of IFAJ members who could be available to go and help journalists in developing countries.
The IFAJ is looking to work with international agencies, including AgriTerra, which was behind the initiative in Belgium.
IFAJ website
The IFAJ is looking at ways of improving its website and make it more interactive with members. Members with suggestions or ideas should contact Joe Watson, Britain’s IFAJ representative.
Broadcast award
The IFAJ has launched a new broadcast award following a successful pilot contest held this year. It is open to radio and TV programmes as well as other forms of broadcast media. More information at the IFAJ website.
