BY DALE LUMA in Fiji
The European Union (EU) has committed 6 million euros to support the Vaka Pasifika project for the facilitation of the Regional Media Engagement Workshop conducted by the UNDP.
This was highlighted by the EU acting head of delegation for the Pacific Dr. Erjs Askola when speaking during the opening of the weeklong Regional Media Engagement Workshop attended by various journalists across the Pacific which started yesterday.
“We have now further our commitment with 6 million euros to support the Vaka Pasifika project over the next five years,”Dr Askola said.
Dr Askola said the media plays a critical role and a Pillar for democracy.
“The media is indispensable in raising awareness on critical matters that affect people at the National, regional and international levels.
“Without awareness, there will be no reform and no progress.
“I want to acknowledge the journalist and regional media for participating in this workshop and partners UNDP and PINA because without your commitment, we will not be able to work towards the implementation of Vaka Pasifika which is funded by the European Union.
“This workshop is important because it is making an important connection between journalism and public finance management.
“This project is a joint effort to promote accountable and transparent public finance management to serve the people.
“Increasing your knowledge on economic governance and public finance will contribute on improving how the media can break issues of public interest and create awareness On the use of taxpayers money and hold the Government more accountable.
“During this workshop we aim to establish a network of economic journalists equipped with the skills and knowledge to become fearless investigators of economic matter.”
The workshop goes into its second day today which will see sessions on exploring best practices in public finance management among other.
