By Oluwafunmilayo Ipaye
Journalist and Director of Great Value Classic School, Ibafo, Ogum State, Mr Akeem Lasisi, has introduced the principles of news reporting to members of the National Youth Service Corps serving in the school.
The programme held at the school began with a noteworthy announcement: the increase in NYSC allowance to N77,000.
However, one of the participants expressed concerns, noting that their batch, which would round off in a matter of weeks, might not benefit from the increment.
The session took a reflective turn when the director asked the corps members about their post-NYSC plans allowing the attendees to share their thoughts and aspiration for life after service.
In the news writing segment, the director emphasised some key principles; stressing that any information termed “news” should have a good measure of ;newness’.
News is usually in present tense.
He also touched on the importance of structuring news using the “5Ws & H” – Who, Which, Why, When, Where and How, while ensuring that stories are concise with one sentence per paragraph.
The Director further stressed the need for accuracy and balance using an example.
He explained that when a rumour or leaked information surfaces, it is crucial to verify facts from all the parties involved before reporting it as news, in order to avoid spreading misinformation.
The session was concluded with practical tips on avoiding libel and using correct English, reinforcing the importance of responsibility and precision in journalism.
