IFAJ's Master Class Empowers Agricultural Journalists to Champion Farmers' Voices

The International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) recently concluded its highly anticipated event, the Master Class, from June 24 to 26 in Alberta. Canada. This prestigious gathering, sponsored by agricultural companies Corteva Agriscience and Alltech, brought together 17 exceptional journalists from across the globe who are dedicated to covering agriculture news. In an era dominated by sensational journalism, these journalists understand the importance of providing a platform for the farming community and recognize its crucial role in the survival of the human race. The Master Class 2023 was a carefully crafted gift to honor their commitment and contributions.

The Master Class Program offers a unique opportunity for journalists to acquire specialized knowledge in agricultural journalism. Addy Rossi, General Secretary of IFAJ, expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating, "Year after year, the IFAJ, together with Corteva, promotes this magnificent program so that colleagues from all over the world can take advantage of it."

Corteva Agriscience, a steadfast supporter of IFAJ for the past 13 years, believes in the power of the Master Class program to enhance global agriculture journalism. Larissa Capriotti, from Corteva's Communications & Media Relations team, explained, "The partnership enables global agriculture journalists to participate in IFAJ's Annual Congress, engage in professional development sessions, and learn about local agricultural practices from around the world."

The 17 exceptional journalists selected for the Master Class will now embark on the next leg of their journey: the IFAJ World Congress in Olds, Alberta, Canada. Taking place from June 27 to July 3, 2023, the World Congress promises to be a grand gathering of agricultural journalists, providing an ideal platform for learning, collaboration, and international understanding. Young journalists got an opportunity to learn from Adalberto Rossi, Secretary-General, IFAJ; Steve Werblow, Vice President, IFAJ, Hugh Maynard, Global Manager, IFAJ during the Master Class, while Bretton Davie, Communications Leader, Corteva Agriscience and Jenn Norrie, Communication Manager, Alltech​ gave an insight about their organizations.

IFAJ's Master Class Participants

Georgia Chirombo, Malawi Institute of Journalism Malawi

MC Dominic, Krishi Jagran, India

Ulan Eshmatov, Freelance Journalist

Mustapha Kamara, Solidaridad West Africa, Sierra Leone

Diego Manas, Bichos De Campo, Argentina

Shahanuare Shaid Shahin, Daily Kaler Kantho, Bangladesh

Mariana Silva, Exame, Brazil

Sofia Spirou, Independent Journalist, Greece

Alberto Ruiz, Amexma Mexico

Joseph Titus Yekeryan, Radio Gbarnga, Liberia

What is IFAJ?

According to its official website, IFAJ is a politically neutral, not-for-profit professional association for agricultural journalists in over 60 countries. With a membership of over 5,000 agricultural journalists and communicators, IFAJ champions freedom of the press, promotes fair and accurate reporting on agricultural issues, supports the development of young journalists, and fosters international collaboration in the field of agricultural journalism and communication.

Established in 1956, IFAJ initially comprised 18 active members, including countries like Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States. Over time, IFAJ welcomed affiliate members such as Australia, Cyprus, Iran, Japan, and the Philippines.

The current President of IFAJ, Lena Johansson, herself an experienced farming journalist, highlighted the organization's historical significance. She explained, "IFAJ was born out of the aftermath of World War II when Europe was grappling with food shortages. Recognizing the link between food security and stability, politicians realized that supporting agriculture and increasing food production were essential. However, farmers also needed education and relevant information to achieve these goals. Thus, a group of agricultural journalists and communicators joined forces to create a network and support each other's work. This marked the beginning of what would later become the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ)."

With the completion of the Master Class and the upcoming World Congress, IFAJ continues to empower agricultural journalists worldwide, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to amplify the voices of farmers and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.