SCP Supports New Generation Environmental Journalists in Econews Training Programme 

Green cities
06.12.2024
The Sustainable Consumption and Production in Lao PDR (SCP Lao) project is designed to strengthen environmental Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), particularly those focused on youth and women, to contribute to green and inclusive economic growth. The project aims to strengthen the capacities of these organizations in key areas such as policy dialogue, awareness raising, and income generation. 
Project Manager on presentation of Communications for Development training  
The programme mentor on a training module

One of the primary objectives of the SCP Lao project is to address significant environmental challenges faced by the country. These challenges include low waste collection and recycling rates, inadequate waste separation practices at the source, and poor coordination among public, private, and civil society stakeholders. To tackle these issues, the project proposes a range of activities, including research and policy dialogue, aimed at providing official guidance on household waste separation and promoting waste-to-resource initiatives.

The specific objectives of the project include enhancing the role of Lao CSOs in environmental policy processes, increasing environmentally conscious behavior among the wider population especially among youth and women and improving recycling systems, employment opportunities, and income generation through green and upcycled products. 

 

Young journalists on group work section
One of the young journalists on explanation of chosen news topic 

To achieve these objectives, the SCP Lao project has partnered with EcoNews Laos to implement the Young Journalists Training Programme (YJTP) for Lao econews. This initiative aims to strengthen the skills of young journalists in news writing and journalism, enabling them to effectively communicate environmental issues. The YJTP focuses on building the capacity of youth to become trained environmental journalists, empowering them to act as catalysts for change within their communities. 

 

"My passion for writing and presenting drives my interest in volunteering with Econews Laos, where I hope to deepen my environmental knowledge. The field visit in Luang Prabang taught me the importance of preparation. With the support of mentors and colleagues, I overcame challenges and gained valuable experience for future fieldwork."
Ms. Thidasavan Phathaphone, one of the young journalists.  
"These young journalists will raise awareness about environmental issues and advocate for sustainability through various social media channels."
Ms. Viengkhone Ketlouay, SCP’s Component Manager for Policy Dialogue

The training program consists of four modules that cover essential topics such as journalism fundamentals, understanding environmental issues, content creation, and engagement with experts and stakeholders. This comprehensive approach not only enhances the skills of young journalists but also fosters a sense of responsibility and agency, encouraging them to advocate for sustainability. 

 

"Through training, young journalists gain essential skills in content creation, data collection, and investigative ethics, empowering them to craft compelling stories on environmental issues. Their enthusiasm and strong communication skills were evident, especially in hands-on sessions like podcasting. With continued practice, they are poised to become valuable assets to the media industry."
Mr. Seesouk  Souvannaphongsay, a trainer from Seesouk Picture
"Econews Laos empowers young voices to tackle global challenges through environmental awareness and action. With each batch of Young Environmental Journalists, we see the potential for transformative change, inspiring youth to become influential advocates and leaders for a sustainable future."
Ms. Valy Phommachak, one of Econox Laos' founder
Young journalists on creating Podcast  
Participants on field reporting in Luangprabang province

Through these initiatives, the SCP Lao project aspires to cultivate a culture of environmental awareness and action, ultimately contributing to a greener and more inclusive economy in the Lao PDR. The Sustainable Consumption and Production project in Lao PDR is funded by the European Union and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. This reflects a commitment to collaborative efforts in promoting sustainable development.

2024 - 2027
Laos
Green cities
Sustainable Consumption and Production in Lao PDR (SCP Lao)
The goal of the project is to enable environmental Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), particularly those focusing on youth and women, to contribute to green and inclusive economic growth in the Lao PDR. This will be achieved by strengthening their capacities in three main areas: policy dialogue, awareness raising, and income generation.