It was a momentous occasion as The University of the South Pacific’s (USP), School of Journalism students and staff commemorated World Press Freedom Day earlier this week.
The theme for this year’s celebration was “Strengthening Media Independence and Sustainability.”
Speaking at the event as Chief Guest, Regional Representative for the UN Office of the High Commission for Human Rights (OHCHR), Heike Alfsen emphasised the importance of media freedom as a pillar of a democracy.
“It’s an essential condition for the rule of law, for sustainable development, and for democracy,” Alfsen explained.
“We know that societies thrive when the media thrives. People are less poor, they’re less underprivileged and less underserved by government authorities and the private sector.”
Present at the occasion as keynote speaker was Secretary of the Fijian Media Association (FMA), Stanley Simpson.
Simpson delivered his address on the importance of maintaining media independence.
“Strengthening media independence means being able to talk to everyone at all sides,” Simpson emphasised.
“Being independent means being able to speak to all of them, and being able to maintain your independence and report in an unbiased way.”
Reflecting on the sacrifices of past and present journalists, he reminded student journalists to never forget the challenges faced by media professionals who fought for media freedom.
“Understand the price of media freedom. Protect it. Speak up when it is threatened, even when it’s uncomfortable.”
Third-year Journalism student and President of the USP Journalism Students Association (JAS), Riya Bhagwan said the event served as powerful reminder of the responsibilities that come with media freedom and maintaining media independence.
“As aspiring journalists, it is crucial to maintain objectivity in reporting and set aside personal biases,” Bhagwan said.
“From the discussions, we understand that while media freedom is a must, it is as equally important to uphold professional and ethical standards.”
The event, hosted by the USP Journalism Students Association (JSA), featured a student-led panel discussion, where students shared their views on the theme and reflected on current challenges faced by journalists in the region.
