Join the Thomson Reuters Foundation Mentorship Programme 2025 for tailored AI strategies and practical training. Deadline: November 18, 2024.
Introduction
The Thomson Reuters Foundation is inviting applications for its Mentorship Programme 2025. This unique programme is part of the Foundation’s ongoing work on media development and focuses on helping newsrooms adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions. By participating in this mentorship, selected newsrooms will gain a better understanding of AI, experiment with cutting-edge tools, and integrate technology effectively to enhance their editorial and operational functions. The initiative specifically targets newsrooms in Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania, aiming to boost efficiency and counter disinformation in the media.
In this blog post, we will explore the programme’s benefits, eligibility requirements, application process, and much more.
Programme Details
The Thomson Reuters Foundation Mentorship Programme offers a comprehensive and tailored approach to integrating AI in newsrooms. Here are some key highlights:
- Programme Duration: Six months
- Geographic Focus: Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania
- Key Focus Areas:
- Understanding AI-driven solutions
- Experimenting with AI tools
- Enhancing editorial and operational efficiency
- Counteracting disinformation
The programme offers tailored strategies based on each newsroom’s specific needs, providing practical experience with AI tools and guidance from experts in AI and journalism.
Benefits of the Mentorship Programme
Participating in the Thomson Reuters Foundation Mentorship Programme offers several significant advantages:
- Tailored AI Strategies: The programme provides customized strategies to meet each newsroom’s unique requirements.
- Expert Guidance: Participants receive mentorship from AI and journalism experts, ensuring valuable insights and support.
- Practical Experience: Newsrooms get hands-on experience with AI tools, helping them learn how to implement these technologies effectively.
- Grant Support: In line with their AI adoption journey, selected newsrooms will receive a moderate grant to assist with the implementation of AI-driven solutions.
- Enhanced Efficiency: The programme aims to improve both editorial and operational efficiency, enabling newsrooms to better serve their audiences.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Thomson Reuters Foundation Mentorship Programme, newsrooms must meet the following requirements:
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Content Focus | Must produce original public interest journalism. |
| Editorial Standards | Must strive for balanced, fair, and accurate journalism. |
| Size of Newsroom | Small to medium size (10 to 50 staff members). |
| Digital Presence | Must have a substantial digital presence. |
| Technical Support | Access to an IT manager, developer, or website manager. |
| Staff Commitment | Must commit at least two staff members to the programme for six months. |
| Legal Compliance | No history of illicit or illegal activities. |
| Independence | Editorial freedom without interference from non-editorial actors. |
| Non-affiliation | Must not be affiliated with any government entity or political group. |
These requirements are designed to ensure that the participating newsrooms have the capacity and commitment needed to fully benefit from the mentorship.
Required Documents
To apply for the programme, newsrooms will need to prepare and submit the following documents:
- Proof of Editorial Independence: Documentation that demonstrates the newsroom’s editorial freedom.
- Organizational Profile: Overview of the newsroom, including size, structure, and digital presence.
- Project Proposal: Outline of how the newsroom plans to utilize the mentorship and grant support.
- Staff Details: Information on the two staff members who will participate in the programme.
- Technical Support Documentation: Evidence of access to technical support (e.g., IT manager, developer).
How to Apply
If your newsroom meets the eligibility criteria and is interested in participating, follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the Application Portal: Go to the Thomson Reuters Foundation website and access the application form.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill in the required details about your newsroom, including contact information and organizational profile.
- Submit Required Documents: Upload all necessary documents, such as proof of editorial independence, project proposal, and staff details.
- Review Your Application: Double-check the information provided to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Submit the Application: Once everything is ready, submit your application before the deadline on November 18, 2024.
For additional guidance, applicants can refer to the detailed instructions on the Thomson Reuters Foundation website.
Conclusion
The Thomson Reuters Foundation Mentorship Programme 2025 is a fantastic opportunity for newsrooms in Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania to advance their AI capabilities and improve editorial efficiency. By participating, newsrooms can gain valuable insights, receive expert mentorship, and access financial support to aid their journey towards AI integration. If your newsroom is committed to producing original public interest journalism and meets the eligibility requirements, don’t miss this chance to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who can apply for the Mentorship Programme?
- Newsrooms in Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania with a focus on public interest journalism and a substantial digital presence can apply.
- What is the application deadline?
- The deadline to submit applications is November 18, 2024.
- What kind of support will the programme provide?
- The programme offers tailored AI strategies, practical experience with AI tools, expert guidance, and a moderate grant.
- How long does the programme last?
- The mentorship programme lasts for six months.
- Can government-affiliated newsrooms apply?
- No, the programme is only open to independent newsrooms that are not affiliated with any government entity or political group.