ABOUT 17 journalism students undertaking media studies at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) attended the weekly police media conference as part of their study.
The excursion was made to Rove headquarters, West Honiara yesterday to observe members of the main stream media attending a press conference called by the Police Commissioner Frank Prendergast.
The field trip was to expose the media students to a professional of field work and give them an opportunity to engage with the press conference on how to report on police round.
It was organised by the Journalism and Media lecturer Jeremy Inifiri as part of a study they are currently undertaking.
John Mc Houaniha, a media student said, the field trip provided an opportunity for them to apply the knowledge and understanding of the subjects they have learned in class by observing the actual event especially the press conference.
“It’s good to see and know other media personnel who attended the press conference as well.
“Such visit is very good for student to learn more on how police and media work together”.
Another media student, Rodrick Desuri said, such trip exposed the students to the real work done by the journalists in the country and to learn and build relationship with the police and media.
Another student Banabas Manebona shared the same sentiment saying the field trip allowed him to learn how media work together with the police.
Acting Director of police Media Unit Godfrey Abiah briefed the students on how the police and the media work together.
He explained the difference between the Police Media units and the main stream media.
Secretary Lisa Offa said, the students were very bright and eager to ask questions and learn allot of the practical side of their carrier.
She was also encouraging the student to continue with this career of media to support the country.
Mr Prendergast thanked the students for their participation and observation during the press conference.
“The students seemed very enthusiastic and were asking lots of questions,” said Jeremy Inifiri yesterday.
“I applaud the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPR) media Unit for arranging such a visit for my students,” he added
“Media students are happy to participate in the police press conference. Young local journalists need this sort of exposure so that they know what they’re up against when they finish their studies,” said Mr Inifiri.
Mr Inifiri was very impressed with the RSIPF media unit and has vowed to return with more students in the future.
By ALFRED PAGEPITU
