Journalist hopefuls

From Media Indonesia

The students of STIE Swadaya, Jatiwaringin, Jakarta, held a journalism workshop for 83 Jakarta students from various private and state universities.

But what is the benefit of the workshop for the students? Nothing. They were disappointed and confused. Why? Because the committee didn't manage it well. First, there were too many subjects to discuss in a very short time, so the discussion of every subject was too superficial. Second, this is a ridiculous thing because the committee did not know the reason for holding this activity. So they did not know what material should be given first and what was to be the follow up.

The differences in perception of a free and responsible press among journalists and government officials made it difficult for the speaker, who looked sad about developments in the Indonesian press, to explain what it was. So the speaker, moderator, and the participants were confused about what is meant by a free and responsible press. How far can the press write the truth? What is the use of discussing something which will end in the interests of certain groups? Such a workshop is definitely a waste of energy, time and money.

I think it is enough to have only 83 students feeling bewildered about the press. We've been sick of it.

The most important thing for the students is to continuously increase their writing ability so that someday their articles will be read by all the people. They also must open their "eyes" to see what is going on in their society.

ERWIN W. GUNAWAN

Jakarta