South Africa : Sixth ICT Journalist of the Year Awards- Call for entries for ICT reporting

Call for entries for ICT reporting


Telkom has launched its sixth ICT Journalist of the Year Awards with a call for entries from journalists covering developments in South Africa’s Information and Communication Technology Sector.

The competition aims to reward journalism excellence, specifically in reportage on ICT matters. The closing date for entries is 23 January 2006 and the winners will be announced at an awards ceremony to take place on the 28 March 2006.
The top ICT journalist will be rewarded with a spectacular prize of R40 000, as well as a 7 day trip to Hong Kong to attend the ITU Conference and sight seeing for the winner and partner while category winners will win R15 000. This year there will be eight categories to encourage wide participation. These categories are: Mainstream Newspapers, Business Magazine, Lifestyle Magazine, Community Newspaper, Television, Radio, Electronic, New Journalist and a new addition to the Awards – Student Journalist.
The awards were first launched in 2000, in association with the Institute for the Advancement of Journalism to develop and nurture an interest in ICT in the media. Over the past five years the Telkom Journalist of the Year Awards has established itself as a meaningful, sought-after accolade in the field of journalism and the premier platform where journalists are recognised for their contribution to the sector.
Previous winners include accomplished journalists like Nathi Suzaki (writing for Business Report) in 2000, Marina Bidoli (writing for Financial Mail) in 2001 and 2003, David Shapshak (writing for the Mail & Guardian & GQ) in 2000 and 2004’s winner Patricia McCracken of Caxton Magazines’ Bona title.
In 2004 the competition attracted some 335 entries across eight categories from journalists writing about the fast-paced, multi-faceted world of information, communications and technology. Entries from writers for business magazines predominated, with recurrent themes including liberalisation, development and black economic empowerment in the ICT sector. Specific topics covered in-depth included the SNO (second network operator) process, regulatory changes, privatisation and developments in technology.
“The winners are informed journalists, who demonstrate a depth of understanding, thoroughness of research and richness in resources. They have shown that they can explain technology to their specific audience, be conscious of quality in their writing, comment effectively and insightfully and generate light as well as heat on an issue” explains Lulu Letlape, Group Executive, Telkom Corporate Communications.
The independent panel of judges comprises respected industry experts and leaders in South African journalism.
For further information visit our awards website (includes criteria and entry forms):
www.telkom.co.za/journalist
Inquiries can be directed to Inge Crow on telephone 011 883 0470 or e-mail inge@eventcompany.co.za