‘If it is not written/documented, take it as something that never happened’. Quotes Rachael Navuga, head of programs at youth equality Centre (YEC) as she crowned her presentation on effective report writing to representatives of Right Here Right Now Member (RHRN) organizations on strengthening documentation and communication skills of the programs being implemented
The meeting was organized jointly by Uganda Youth and Adolescents Health Forum (UYAHF) and Reach a Hand Uganda (RAHU) took place on Wednesday 8th 2019 at grand global Hotel in Kampala.
The training aimed at; developing a clear understanding of the role of communication in the organizational programs, understanding audiences, imparting skills for developing/writing different types of documents including; report writing, organizational visibility, policy statement, producing newsletters, digital video and audio reporting among others.
Despite its critical function in achieving organization goals, Patrick Mwesigye, the UYAHF team leader said, “it is evident that several organizations lack desired skills in preparing good documents, making effective communication, and in spite of doing good work; they are not able to effectively demonstrate it or share with the wider community”.
Doreen, the communication and advocacy officer at Reach Hand Uganda urged partners not to be silent about stories that create an impact to the society.
“Don’t give people a chance to imagine what you do; we need to tell those stories that can create an impact because ultimately, this is why we exist as civil society organizations”
Members pointed out: Cyber security, assessment of reach and impact, little interest in communication functions, capacity building and lack of supporting equipment as some of the major challenges faced by the communication and documentation function, especially those dealing with online space.
Faith Tendo, a RHRN member from Center for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD) noted that the capacity building was timely; she said many partners have resorted to copying and pasting information, a culture that is unfit for professionals.
“I see some of our partners copying and pasting content without even acknowledging sources, I think this training has opened many people’s minds in that regard’ said Tendo.
Mark Kasiita, a renowned social media influencer and a member of RHRN consortium challenged communicators to read as much as they publish if they are to keep their organizations relevant before their audiences. “We need to be ‘thought leaders’, but you can’t be; if you don’t read as much as you publish” says Mr. Kasiita.
Partner members appreciated organizers for a well thought capacity building and training.
“I now know more about report writing, especially, the language and style to use while reporting” says one of the participants from (HURINET)
John Ekamu from International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF), also a member of RHRN, while closing the workshop esteemed participants for freely and selflessly sharing knowledge among themselves as partners on a common cause.
“I quietly sat, listened to the free flow of ideas from all of you and this gave me an impression that perhaps this should be done more often, it was a timely activity and am glad you all participated” said Mr Ekemu.