MRCG, Paradigm Initiative Train Journalists On Digital Rights
By Marilyn King
The Media Coordinating Group (MRCG) in partnership with PARADIGM INITIATIVE on Monday 23rd June 2025 trained Journalists on Digital Rights. The event took place at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown.
Speaking at the event the National Coordinator, Dr, Francis Sowa Esq said that the session is to introduce the concept of Digital Rights and to enhance the understanding of Digital Security risk and education for press freedom.
He stated that there are lot of things that are happening in the digital world.
He furthered that they appreciate the work of Paradigm Initiative by extending the concept to Sierra Leone noting that as a way of increasing capacity building.
He said that they don’t need to do it alone as they looking for partners and that with Paradigm Initiative they will grow from strength to strength.
He concluded that the outcome of the session will show the lead for further collaboration.
The Representative and Regional Lead of Paradigm Initiative, Madam Kadija EL Usman said that Paradigm Initiative is Pan African socialite press that works to advance digital inclusion and digital right across the continent.
She continued that at Paradigm Initiative they believe that access to the internet can be an ability to express yourself freely, securely and without fear and not a privilege, noting that it is a fundamental element.
She said what they do is to support community organizations and government in building capacities that are safe, inclusive and respectful of others.
She noted that the training is tailored for Journalists, and journalists’ role is essential in uphold democracy.
The Digital Media Intern UNDP Sierra Leone, Madam Binty Mansaray, in her presentation said that Digital Security means protecting your computer, IPads and phones.
She said Data Storage Encryption, is the encryption of files on your computer or a USB drive using a password or the use of an encrypted tool that encrypt files, folders or an entire drive, it helps to protect sensitive document stored.
She said VPN’s Encrypts data between a user’s device and a remote server to ensure privacy and anonymity.
Panel discussions on understanding the threats and presentation climaxed the occasion.
