The reporters were well trained by several local and international media gurus to serve as anchors and reporter in all polling stations across the country through AYV television, radio and newspaper respectively.

Some of the key areas of focus during the training were, the code of conduct of journalism, the editorial policy of the Africa Young Voices Media Empire, the National Electoral Commission guidelines, the Independent Media Commission code and ethics for journalists covering elections.

Outlining the editorial policy of AYV, Antonia Howard a member of the editorial committee said Africa Young Voices is known for its factual, credible and balanced reporting because of its strict editorial policy. She laid emphasis on always ensuring that journalists report the right story rather than being the first to report the wrong story.

She went on to say the Africa Young Voices Media Empire is known and trusted by all Sierra Leoneans because of its impartiality, objectivity and transparency in news, which according to her is the bedrock of its popularity and trustworthiness as it seeks out the stories from all sides.

Speaking on credible reporting, Samuel Wise Bangura; Head of News and Current Affairs called on all reporters to put Sierra Leone first in the dispensation of service; as deciding Sierra Leone’s future rests squarely on them providing reliable, trustworthy elections coverage in a timely manner.

He said as journalists, reporting the right information is key to building a better Sierra Leone.

Other facilitators at the training include Angela Angwanyi – AYV Director of Operations who spoke on what is required of AYV reporters on elections reporting, Habibul Munzir – AYV Head of Technical Department who spoke on camera handling and positioning, Vicky Remo – AYV Head of Social Media who spoke on social media handling and Aruna Turay – AYV Head of Print who spoke on credible, factual and balanced elections reporting among others.

The event was a huge success according to several of the participants interviewed. They thanked the AYV for the opportunity of serving their country and the AYV in the noble profession of Journalism, adding that they shall do all in their powers to abide and respect the AYV, SLAJ, IMC and NEC ethics and codes of conduct guiding the behavior of journalists before, during and after the elections.

A question and answer session followed by social interaction and photographing climaxed the day’s training.