Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said there is a need for continuous training for Pacific journalists.
Tuilaepa made these remarks when delivering the keynote address for the official opening of the ITU-ABU Pacific Media Partnership Conference 2015 at the Tooa Salamasina Hall.
The conference is funded by the International Telecommunication Union and Asia Broadcasting Union in partnership with the Governments of Samoa and the Australian Government.
“For many of our very small island countries including Samoa, the need exists for continuous capacity building and training to ensure that our journalists are able to keep up with the rapid changes in technology,” said the Prime Minister.
The theme for the conference is ‘Partnering for Broadcasting’ which, according to Tuilaepa, reflects the importance of cooperation between our region’s television and radio broadcasters, to share expertise and knowledge, and to understand new concepts and technology in order to improve capacity in various aspects of broadcasting and media delivery.
The Prime Minister also extended a warm welcome to over 105 delegates from 21 countries and reminded visitors to take some time out to see the country and enjoy the pristine environment.
The conference agenda include:
· To share country experiences on transition from analogue to digital terrestrial television broadcasting;
· To provide information on new technology and services for digital television and radio broadcasting digital terrestrial television broadcasting.
· To build skills enabling transition from analogue.