A ‘Prime Minister Media Excellence Award’ will be awarded to a top journalist this year.
This was announced by Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare during the Media Freedom Day celebration last night.
Mr Sogavare said, in recognition of the good working relationship that exists with the media the government is introducing the Prime Minister Media Excellence Award from this year.
He said, the award will be in the form of a scholarship to be undertaken in 2016.
“The winner will undertake journalism studies either at Solomon Islands National University or overseas at the government expense.”
He said details will be announced later in the year.
He said, between now and then his press secretariat will be working closely with industry leaders in establishing the selection criteria and other considerations for the award.
Mr Sogavare said, the award will not come easy and journalists must work extra hard to earn consideration for the major prize.
He said, journalism and the press is a force for good.
“Use it to help lift our nation, rather than dwell on heavily and innuendos with their destructive influences.
“The challenge to turn this country into better place is a shared responsibility as a force that shapes and influences public opinion.”
By Charles Kadamana
