KATHMANDU: The Climate Change Watch Program (CCWP) under Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists (NEFEJ) organized a two day training on "climate change and adaptation" for the benefit of journalists covering climate change issues in major newspapers, radio and television.

The training which was conducted in partnership with Oxfam GB Nepal was attended by 25 journalists from all the major newspapers, television channels and radio stations including FM stations.

The first session of the media training was inaugurated by Dr Udya Raj Sharma, Secretary, Ministry of Environment who appreciated the efforts saying "this has come at a time when media reports have not been free from blemishes given the seriousness of the issue of climate change."

Country Director of Oxfam G B Nepal Wayne Gum expressed the view that his organization has been working in the area of climate change and adaptation which will continue in the years ahead.

NEFEJ President Dhurba Basnet expressed the commitment to hold such training in the years ahead with the objective of imparting professionalism among journalists on the issue.

Trainers comprised Bhusan Tuladhar, Executive Director, Environment and Public Health Organisation (ENPHO) and Batu Krishna Upreti, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation.

The participants were assigned to report on issues related to climate change  and its impact in the Godavari region which was evaluated and commented upon by Nagarik editor Narayan Wagle.

"I felt as if I was in the newroom. This will certainly improve reporting," Wagle said. NEFEJ Executive Director Om Khadka gave away certificates at the end of the training session.

NEFEJ will be awarding two fellowship to candidates from among participants by December 15 as part of the bid to promote reporting into climate change related issues. The selected candidates will be producing stories which will have to be published or aired by the media they are associated with.