journalism

Do you think that there should be a minimum qualification to be a journalist?

“With power comes great responsibility”. This idiom holds true to almost every field of life and journalism is no exception. Media has a great ethical responsibility towards the country and its people which must be emphasized today, when facts and communication play a vital role in the development of citizens' personal attitudes and the growth of society and democratic life. A journalist's occupation consists of rights and obligations, freedom and responsibilities. The main principle of any ethical contemplation of journalism is - a clear distinction must be drawn between data, news and views, so as to not mislead the people. News is information about facts and data, while opinions convey thoughts, ideas, views, beliefs or value judgments on the part of media firms, publishers or journalists.

News broadcasting must be built on honesty, which should be ensured by the appropriate means of verification and proof, and fairness in presentation, description and narration. Rumor must not be mistaken with news. News headlines and summaries must reflect as closely as possible the substance of the facts and data presented. Expression of opinions may demand thoughts or comments on general ideas or remarks on news relating to actual incidents. Although views are necessarily subjective and therefore cannot and should not be made subject to the standard of truthfulness, we must ensure that opinions are expressed in honest and ethical ways.

Opinions taking the form of comments on events or actions relating to persons or organizations should not attempt to deny or hide the reality of data.

Hence, I believe that journalists should require minimum qualification and certification. It should not be an exception. Journalism has become a field that requires people to have a strong grasp of technology.  Journalism schools should aim polishing people who have the required language, knowledge and loyalty. Being a journalist is like walking on thin ice one has to be careful and sensitive about the news he presents. Journalism minimum qualification should be made mandatory for journalists.

Rachaita Vyas