UJOSS Launches Journalists Training on Constitution-Making
By Wek Atak Kacjang
The Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS), in partnership with UNMISS and JICA, has officially launched a three-day capacity-building workshop for journalists on the constitution-making process on Tuesday.
The training, taking place at Palm Africa Hotel in Juba, brings together journalists from across South Sudan’s ten states, the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, and the Ruweng Administrative Area.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Wek Mamer Kuol, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, underscored the critical role of journalists in educating and engaging the public as the country drafts its permanent constitution.
UJOSS President Oyet Patrick Charles emphasized that the constitution-making process is a national partnership—one that requires strong collaboration between the media and the National Constitutional Review Commission. He called on journalists to be proactive in ensuring the voices of all citizens are heard.
“This process belongs to the people. Journalists are key in making sure that every South Sudanese is informed and involved,” Oyet noted.
The workshop represents a significant step in South Sudan’s ongoing constitutional development process, providing media professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively cover and communicate constitutional matters to the public. Through this comprehensive training program, journalists will gain deeper insights into the complexities of constitution-making, enabling them to serve as informed intermediaries between the constitutional review process and the citizens they serve.
The collaboration between UJOSS, UNMISS, and JICA demonstrates the international community’s commitment to supporting South Sudan’s democratic institutions and press freedom. This partnership underscores the recognition that a well-informed media landscape is essential for meaningful public participation in constitutional processes.
As South Sudan continues its journey toward establishing a permanent constitution, the role of journalists in facilitating transparent communication and public engagement remains paramount. The three-day workshop aims to equip media professionals with the expertise needed to navigate the intricacies of constitutional law and effectively translate complex legal concepts for public consumption.
