Minister Of Media Salman Bin Yousef Al-Dossary Inaugurates SPA Academy For News Training In Riyadh

The SPA Academy for News Training was inaugurated by Minister of Media and Chairman of the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) Board of Directors, Salman bin Yousef Al-Dossary. The event took place at the agency's headquarters in Riyadh. Attendees included Minister of Education Yousef Al-Benyan and Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, President of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA).

During the ceremony, a presentation highlighted the academy's role as a non-profit institution aimed at improving media professionals' skills. The academy's license was officially handed over by Dr. Adel Alzenedy from the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC) to Ali Alzaid, Acting President of SPA and Chairman of the Academy's Board of Trustees.

Several memoranda of understanding were signed between the academy and various organisations. These included TVTC, Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University, SDAIA, the Institute of Public Administration, King Abdulaziz University, Hadaf, the National eLearning Center, the Saudi Accreditation Center, and Microsoft.

Minister Al-Dossary highlighted that SPA will use its resources and international partnerships to share global experiences. This initiative draws on over fifty years of expertise from its personnel to enhance media training.

Tariq Al-Sheikh, Executive Director of the academy, announced plans for future training programs. By late 2024, a training calendar focusing on government trainees will be released. Additionally, programs for graduates are being developed with the Human Capability Development Program and private sector partners for launch in 2025-2026.

The academy is also preparing specialized programs for journalists. These will be announced through its digital platform and social media channels to ensure wide accessibility.

A Strategic Initiative for Media Development

Ali Alzaid noted that establishing the academy is part of SPA's strategic development plan. It aims to support the news industry by equipping media professionals with practical skills through collaborations with leading international and local partners.

This initiative is set within a framework prioritising professionalism and accuracy in media practices. The academy seeks to provide comprehensive training that meets industry standards while fostering growth in media capabilities.

The inauguration marks a significant step towards enhancing media training in Saudi Arabia. By leveraging international expertise and local partnerships, the SPA Academy aims to elevate professional standards in journalism across the region.

With inputs from SPA