SECTOR 4

make the ends tie.” In this regard, having the evidence to substantiate the story
is critical.
The degree of self-censorship that takes place depends largely on the
management. “If you have a supportive management and practice, it usually
helps give reporters confidence.”
While self-censorship is often prompted by the political and commercial pressure
noted above, as well as by considerations for personal risk, it is also true that
journalists might censor themselves based on who they are writing about. “As
a journalist, you build friendships with the newsmakers, and you might censor
stories that put those friends in a negative light.”

Scores:
Individual scores:
1

Country does not meet indicator

2

Country meets only a few aspects of indicator

3

Country meets some aspects of indicator

4

Country meets most aspects of indicator

5

Country meets all aspects of the indicator

Average score:

3.0 (2012 = 1.8; 2010 = 2.0; 2007 = 2.0)

4.7 Media professionals have access to training facilities offering formal qualification programmes as well
as opportunities to upgrade skills.
Several institutions of higher learning offer formal qualification programmes in
media-related subjects.
Makerere University’s Department of Mass Communications offers degree
programmes, (e.g. in Mass Communications or in Journalism), as well as diplomas
(for example in environmental reporting). The Uganda Christian University in
Mukono also offers a Bachelor Degree in Mass Communications.
“Overall, there is a need for more formal qualification programmes.”
“The universities do well to prepare them for the job. Maybe not in terms of
practical training, but their programmes do enhance their ability to work through
a story.” In regard to practical training “there is a need to try to create space for

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER UGANDA 2016

73

Select target paragraph3