Mbodiène, Senegal

This course, organised by Femmes Africa Solidarité (FAS) and University for Peace (UPEACE), focuses on the role of the media in conflict prevention and conflict transformation, media coverage of women in conflict, and feminist media. It aims to tackle how the media perpetuates patriarchal behaviours in different cultures, and seeks to critically analyse and debate the role of the media in influencing concepts of power and gender.

The course also aims to provide a space for academic and intellectual enrichment as well as for the exchange of practical knowledge and experience from the different environments of the participants. Concepts of gender-sensitive intervention methods will be organised around real-world application of theoretical debates. Special attention will be paid to contemporary case studies on media and conflict and the role of media in peace processes.

The main objective of the project is to recruit 30 women and men working in the field of peace and media, including media and communications professionals (in civil society organisations, women's grassroots organisations, and other institutions), to reinforce their skills and allow them to refine their approach to media coverage during and after conflict.

Further objectives of the project are to:

• clarify concepts, terms, and definitions of gender, media and conflict;
• strengthen the capacity of participants in the areas of media coverage before, during, and after conflict with a focus on gender;
• empower media professionals and people working in communication; and
• create a critical mass on gender issues among media professionals.

Click here for more information on the course.

To apply for the course, applicants are required to fill in an application form and submit it together with the following:

• a letter of application showing why she/he wants to attend this short course;
• a letter of recommendation from their supervisor; and
• an updated biographical indicating professional and educational background.

Deadline for application is November 30 2008. Please send information to the contact details below with the subject of "workshop application".

A first selection of candidates will be conducted by FAS and a second by FAS and UPEACE. Notification will be made electronically if the nominated candidate has been accepted. An administrative note including practical arrangements (transportation details, formal acceptance, visa instructions, etc.) will be sent once a candidate has acknowledged the acceptance letter and confirmed participation.

Click here to download the application form in Word format.