ACJ Launches Dedicated Media Hub to Strengthen Climate Journalism
The Asian College of Journalism (ACJ) is establishing a dedicated Climate Change Media Hub at its Chennai campus, a major initiative designed to elevate the quality and depth of environmental and climate reporting across India. The new hub, set to launch in November 2025, aims to create a specialised ecosystem for journalists by focusing on intensive training, professional networking, and resource development.
Tailored Programs for Career Journalists
In partnership with Germany’s Interlink Academy, the hub will roll out two distinct, eight-month flagship programs over the next three years, each catering to journalists at different stages of their careers.
The first, a Climate Change Residency Programme, is designed for senior Indian journalists with at least seven years of dedicated experience in environmental reporting. This intensive program offers a unique opportunity for established reporters, both independent and those attached to newsrooms, to take a sabbatical to deepen their expertise.
The second, a Climate Change Mentorship Programme, is targeted at younger journalists with two to three years of experience. This track is structured to allow participants to produce sophisticated multimedia stories from their current locations, under the direct guidance of veteran environmental journalists who will serve as mentors.
Fostering Advanced Skills and Expertise
The core of the initiative is its focus on practical capacity building. Participants in both programs will receive comprehensive support, including stipends and funding for story production. They will be granted full access to the ACJ's state-of-the-art production and post-production facilities, including advanced visual, audio, and digital labs.
The curriculum will feature direct interactions with subject matter experts and seasoned mentors, providing invaluable insights into the complex scientific, social, and political dimensions of climate change. A series of specialised workshops will also be held to enhance multimedia reporting skills, equipping the next generation of climate journalists with the tools to tell compelling and impactful stories.
Building a National Resource for Climate Reporting
Beyond the individual training programs, the Climate Change Media Hub is envisioned as a national resource for the entire journalistic community. By strengthening the skills of a dedicated cadre of reporters, the ACJ aims to create a robust network of informed and highly capable journalists who can lead the public discourse on one of the most critical issues of our time. The initiative represents a significant investment in the future of specialized journalism in India.
Highlights of the Climate Reporting Initiative
New Specialised Hub: The Asian College of Journalism is launching a Climate Change Media Hub in Chennai to enhance environmental reporting in India.
Two Flagship Programs: The hub will offer an eight-month residency for senior journalists and a parallel mentorship program for early-career reporters.
Comprehensive Support: Participants will receive stipends, production funding, mentorship from veteran journalists, and access to ACJ's advanced media production facilities.
Goal of Capacity Building: The initiative, in partnership with Germany's Interlink Academy, aims to build a strong network of skilled journalists capable of leading the conversation on climate change.
