The platform aims to support more and better innovation in journalism and media in South Africa and the rest of the African continent
Journalism and media faces many challenges on the continent and in South Africa in particular. There is really little alternative but to innovate. And all over the continent there are examples of great innovation. And the Journalism and Media Lab (JAMLAB) aims to support and build a platform to showcase the great work done by innovators in Africa.
JAMLAB is a programme of Wits Journalism and the Joburg Centre for Software Engineering in partnership with Ryerson University, Toronto and Journalists for Human Rights. The project aims to support more and better innovation in journalism and media in Africa.
But innovation is difficult, risky and often ends in failure. And this is the gap where JAMLAB can play a role — providing innovators with information, inspiration and networks to support more, and more successful, innovation.
There are two ways the project is aiming to contribute:
The first way is through the online magazine and other digital platforms which will showcase innovations and innovators, share experiences of using new technologies and tools and provide access to research . The goal is not only to publish stories, but to hopefully contribute to growing a network of innovators and to help build a ‘community of practice’ of media makers that can support each other by sharing advice and experience.
The second way is through an ‘accelerator’ programme. JAMLAB is looking for South African teams to be part of the new Tshimologong Digital Innovation Zone in Braamfontein for a six month programme including a ‘lean start up’ course, coaching and mentoring from some of the best innovators on the continent; as well as provide access to investors and funders. Applications are currently open for the accelerator programme.
Please visit website and find out more about the programme on Medium.
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