In its continuous support of a vibrant and independent media sector in Afghanistan, the United States Development Agency (USAID) helped launch the Nai Media Institute, the first Afghan Media Institute in Kabul today.
“We are proud to be a part of the process of upgrading the media industry in Afghanistan by offering a two-year media course, the first program of its kind in the country,” said the Nai Executive Director, Abdul Mujeeb Khalvatgar, addressing the U.S. and Afghan Government officials and media representatives attending the opening ceremony.
“USAID has proudly supported independent media since 2002 because we believe that media has a critical role to play in the future of Afghanistan,” said the Deputy Director of the USAID Office of Democracy and Governance, Maura Barry.
The Nai Media Institute opening ceremony also marked the debut of the Media Directory. The Directory is the first-ever book of its kind in Afghanistan, containing reference information on all media outlets in the country. This Directory includes names, locations, coverage, language of broadcast/publication, and other-related information for print and broadcast outlets.
The Nai Media Institute was established in consultation with Afghanistan’s media industry and international media training experts to provide professional studies in radio, television and online broadcasting. The courses will commence in March 2012.
USAID AMDEP builds the capacity of local independent media through technical support, equipment upgrades, hands-on training, business development, and the strengthening of media industry institutions, networks, and associations to increase media professionalism and standards of practice.