SDJF and MIM Launch Sri Lanka’s First Certificate Course on Ethical Reporting and Minority Protectio

SDJF and MIM Launch Sri Lanka’s First Certificate Course on Ethical Reporting and Minority Protection

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Sri Lanka Development Journalist Forum (SDJF) has
partnered with Maharaja Management Institute (MIM) to introduce Sri Lanka’s first-ever
certificate course on Ethical Reporting and Minority Protection. The official inauguration took place on February 27, 2025, at the MIM building, marking a significant milestone in promoting responsible journalism and minority representation in the media.

The event commenced with the signing of a formal agreement between the two institutions. Ms. Chethana Liyanage, Chief Executive Director of MIM, and Mr. Azad Mustaffa, Attorney-at-Law and Program Director, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective organizations. Distinguished attendees included Dr. Samantha Ratnayake and Dr. Ashoka Dharshana, Co-Chairpersons of SDJF, Ms. Pradeepa Easwaran- Academic and Marketing Manager MIM, Mr.Kanthaverl

Mayooran- Director News 1st Digital - Digital media, Mr. Rajendran Kogulanath- News Director of Shakthi TV, and Ms. Vysnavi Manoharan, Sri Lanka Coordinator for Minority Rights Group Internatonal-UK and Prasanya- Program Administrator SDJF and Mr.Mohamed Fazlan Finance Officer SDJF.

Addressing the audience, Dr. Samantha Ratnayake emphasized the broader vision of the
program, stating, “This course is not just about training minority fellows in journalism; it is about building a community of storytellers who can champion diversity, foster understanding, and bridge divides. It equips you—the fellows—with the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundation necessary to navigate the ever-evolving media landscape while staying true to the principles of integrity and fairness.”

Ms. Chethana Liyanage, CEO of MIM, highlighted the institute’s role in guiding participants toward responsible reporting. “It is important to report responsibly and ethically to represent the minority community. MIM will take you on a path of responsible reporting, where you can learn from our esteemed pool of resources.”

Mr.Kogulanath quoted “Journalism is vital in exposing injustices and shaping public discourse. Though groundbreaking news may face resistance, persistent truth-telling can drive change. Ethical journalism, despite opposition, influences policy and empowers society. History shows that fearless reporting amplifies voices, challenges power, and serves as a catalyst for meaningful social transformation.”

As part of this initiative, SDJF has selected 30 minority youths and women to participate in the training program. Following the orientation session, the certificate course officially commenced, setting the stage for an enriching learning experience.

This initiative is part of the Minority Empowerment for Democracy and Pluralism project,
implemented by SDJF in partnership with Minority Rights Group UK and funded by the
European Union. It underscores a collective effort to promote ethical journalism, amplify minority voices, and contribute to a more inclusive and democratic media landscape in Sri Lanka.