Ras Al Khaimah Government Media Office and AURAK Celebrate First Cohort of Junior Reporter Programme

Ras Al Khaimah: The Ras Al Khaimah Government Media Office (RAKGMO), in collaboration with the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), held a recognition ceremony to honor the successful completion of the inaugural Junior Reporter Programme. This initiative aims to empower emerging media talent and enhance youth participation in storytelling throughout Ras Al Khaimah.

Programme Overview and Achievements

Launched in October 2025, the Junior Reporter Programme engaged ten university students who contributed to the coverage of over 15 events and initiatives during the academic year. The students were also integrated into the UAE’s main event calendar, allowing them to extend their journalistic reach to significant developments across the nation.

The ceremony acknowledged students across various award categories, including excellence in storytelling, audience impact, and content contribution. Additionally, it recognized AURAK students who supported the Heart of RAK initiative beyond the formal program framework.

Key Attendees and Partnerships

The event was attended by Heba Fatani, Director General of RAKGMO, and Professor Bassam Alameddine, President of AURAK. They were joined by the Heart of RAK team, students, parents, and faculty members, highlighting a partnership focused on bridging academic learning with practical media experience.

This event marks the second collaboration between RAKGMO and AURAK. Previously, they, along with the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, launched the Saud bin Saqr Media Scholarship Programme, reinforcing their commitment to empowering young individuals and preparing future media professionals in Ras Al Khaimah.

Statements from Leadership

Heba Fatani emphasized the program’s alignment with the vision of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. She stated that the Junior Reporter Programme translates this vision into actionable steps that empower youth and prepare them for the future. Fatani noted the importance of providing meaningful opportunities for young talent to engage with the media landscape, asserting that the program’s success is a testament to the potential of the next generation of communicators.

Professor Bassam Alameddine remarked on the significance of partnerships that connect education with real-world practice. He highlighted that the Junior Reporter Programme allowed students to apply their academic knowledge while learning about the latest industry advancements through direct interaction with professionals. This experiential learning approach enhances graduates’ career prospects and impact.

Student Experiences and Contributions

Rouba Zeidan, Head of Special Projects at RAKGMO, expressed pride in the students’ achievements. She noted their ability to meet real-time deadlines, cover live events, and produce content that reflects the essence of Ras Al Khaimah. Zeidan highlighted the drive, passion, and initiative exhibited by the cohort, emphasizing that talent often requires nurturing and space to flourish.

The Junior Reporter Programme exemplifies the ongoing commitment of RAKGMO and AURAK to integrate academic learning with professional practice in media and communications. This initiative supports Ras Al Khaimah’s broader efforts to nurture young talent, enhance community engagement, and foster the next generation of storytellers and media practitioners.

Recognition of Participants

The first cohort of the Junior Reporter Programme included Jana Daghlas, Ghina Ahmed Helmi Abdelmeged, Fatema Al Zaabi, Besufkad Kassaye, Khaled Alkurdi, Hala Hamza, Elsa Yahfoufi, Reem Marhoon, Mariam Semida, and Ibrahim Aboutewit. All participants successfully completed the program and contributed to its success throughout the academic year.

During the ceremony, certificates were awarded to the students in recognition of their commitment and contributions to the coverage of events and initiatives in Ras Al Khaimah. Special recognition was also given to Ali Al Suwaid, Nahyan Saqr, Obaid Alteneiji, Mohammed Alteneiji, and Joudy Al Nabhan for their outstanding contributions to storytelling and event coverage.

For more information, visit the original reporting source: www.emirates247.com.

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Published on 2026-06-04 00:09:00 • By the Editorial Desk