JournalismAI Academy Training Programme

The JournalismAI Academy is a free online programme that offers journalists and media professionals a deep dive into the potential of artificial intelligence.

Following the success of their first cohort of the Academy for Sub-Saharan Africa and as part of their continued efforts to expand their programmes across different regions, they’re excited to launch the second edition. This year, they’ll be selecting 20 participants from across the region to join a new cohort of journalists exploring the intersection of journalism and artificial intelligence.

The programme combines a series of masterclasses given by experts working at the intersection of journalism and artificial intelligence with opportunities for discussion among participants. In addition to that, participants will be guided through the development of resources that can support their organisations’ AI-adoption journey during and after the programme. The 5-week programme will start in July 2025.

Modules

• Module 1: Understanding Ai & Its Applications
  • In this module, they will focus on practical AI tools and their applications in journalism while providing a foundational understanding of key concepts like machine learning, neural networks, and natural language processing (NLP)/natural language generation (NLG). Participants will learn how AI is used in newsrooms, analyse case studies of successful implementations, and gain insights into selecting and integrating AI tools into their workflows.
• Module 2: Data & Technology
  • In this module, they will focus on the importance of data and technology in AI implementation. They will discuss the types of data needed for AI processes and the tech infrastructure required to support them. Participants will also learn about data privacy and security concerns that must be addressed when implementing AI in journalism.
• Module 3: Generative Ai for Journalism: Best Uses
  • In this module, they will focus on exploring generative AI tools and mastering their efficient use in practical scenarios. They will delve into the techniques and strategies for optimising these tools, specifically focusing on crafting effective prompts.
• Module 4: Risks & Concerns
  • In this module, they will identify the risks and concerns associated with AI in journalism, such as bias, accountability, and transparency. Participants will learn about ethical considerations when using AI and explore strategies for mitigating the potential harms of AI in journalism.
• Module 5: From Ideation to Implementation
  • In this module, they will focus on ideation, exploring the different possibilities and scenarios where AI can be applied to journalism. Through brainstorming sessions and group exercises, participants will develop new ideas for AI tools that can enhance and support their journalistic work.

Eligibility Criteria

• The Academy is designed for journalists and media professionals working in any newsroom.
• They are selecting 20 participants from Sub-Saharan Africa (including Central Africa, East Africa, Southern Africa, and West Africa) from GMT+1 to GMT+3.
• The ideal candidate already has a basic understanding of the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning, and works in a news organisation that has started exploring how to use these new technologies.
• Candidates with different newsroom titles will be considered, but in the selection process, priority will be given to candidates who demonstrate the ability to influence the strategic adoption of AI in their news organisation to tackle journalistic challenges.
• No coding skills are required to attend the Academy, nor are there any other technical requirements, other than a stable WiFi connection to participate in the live activities. They encourage journalists and media professionals from all backgrounds to apply.

Ineligibility Criteria

• The Academy is not for freelancers – you need to be part of a newsroom to benefit from the programme. The Academy is not for journalists based outside the Sub-Saharan Africa region. Finally, the Academy is not for journalists who are not fluent in English.

For more information, visit Journalism Ai.