GBARNGA, BONG COUNTY – The air around the Super Bongese FM compound in Gbarnga was unusually quiet—not for lack of activity, but because something powerful was unfolding inside. Over the course of two intensive days, from Friday, July 4 to Saturday, July 5, 2025, the station’s conference room became a center for reflection, renewed purpose, and the fine-tuning of journalistic skill, as media professionals from Super Bongese Radio 104.9 MHz and Voice of Kpatawee 91.1 MHz participated in a dynamic in-house training workshop aimed at sharpening their craft.
Both radio stations are owned and operated by Bong Communications Service Incorporated (BCSI), a pioneering media company that has stood at the forefront of broadcast journalism in Liberia for more than two decades. Through its platforms, BCSI has produced some of Liberia’s finest media practitioners—many of whom now serve in top newsrooms across the country and in international institutions around the globe.
Established over 20 years ago, Super Bongese FM has evolved into one of Bong County’s most respected media institutions. Known for its consistency, integrity, and people-centered programming, the station has received multiple honors, including two Press Union of Liberia Media Awards, IREX journalism prizes, and recognition from global media leaders like the BBC. Its sister station, Voice of Kpatawee, shares this legacy—serving as a trusted source of local news, civic education, and public dialogue.
The workshop, organized under the leadership of James Dorbor Nakulah Sao, Chief Executive Officer of Super Bongese and Bong Communications Service Inc., brought together reporters, program presenters, and producers from both stations. Samuel Kplawru, Station Manager, and Samuel Dorweh, Director of Finance and Administration, delivered key sessions that covered a spectrum of essential themes—ranging from journalistic ethics and investigative reporting to effective news gathering and the increasing role of digital platforms.
“This wasn’t just a refresher—it was a reawakening,” said Mr. Sao during his closing remarks. “We’ve done a lot of good work over the past twenty years. We’ve won the Press Union of Liberia’s Media Award twice, IREX Awards, and have received recognition from institutions like the BBC. But we must keep improving. When we speak, let it be clear and compelling. When we write, let it be accurate and impactful. That’s what this training was about.”
He praised the commitment of the entire team and emphasized that the training marked just the beginning of a renewed capacity-building drive. More targeted sessions, he said, would follow—focusing on strengthening specific areas of reporting and programming across the network.
The impact of the two-day workshop was deeply felt among participants.
David, a journalist from Voice of Kpatawee, was among those who expressed deep appreciation.
“Being a journalist is a serious responsibility. The information we share can either help or harm, so we must take this role very seriously,” he said. “I want to thank all our colleagues who stayed committed from start to finish.”
Marthaline Cammue, a staff member at Super Bongese, likened the experience to a professional development course she learned at the two days exercise.
“This training taught us what it really means to be truthful and fair in our reporting,” she noted. “Friendship must not cloud our judgment. We must be neutral—even if it’s someone close to us—we have to report the facts and maintain integrity.”
The sessions were designed to be highly interactive, incorporating real-life newsroom scenarios and case studies. These practical examples encouraged both beginners and experienced staff to reflect on how their daily editorial decisions shape public trust and influence society.
Together, the teams explored journalism’s power not only to inform, but to uplift, educate, and protect. From navigating sensitive topics to engaging digital audiences, the workshop reinforced the principle that journalism at its best is rooted in responsibility, accountability, and service to the public.
As the final discussions wrapped up, laughter, applause, and warm handshakes echoed across the compound. But the atmosphere wasn’t just celebratory—it was affirmational. The team had not only completed a workshop; they had recommitted to the timeless values of truthful, ethical, and impactful journalism.
Now entering its third decade of service, Bong Communications Service Inc. remains steadfast in its mission. With leadership focused on innovation, professionalism, and public engagement, the institution is determined to push even further—empowering it.
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