Jayapura, Jubi – A journalism training workshop at Cenderawasih University (Uncen) was held to help students develop critical thinking, creativity, and media literacy, according to Apner Krei, Vice Dean III of the university's Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP).
Krei made the remarks during a one-day journalism workshop for Uncen students held on Saturday (July 11, 2026).
The training took place in the Office Administration Management study program classroom at Uncen's Abepura campus in Jayapura and brought together students from all nine faculties of the university.
"The theme of this workshop is to develop students who are critical, creative, and media literate," Krei said in his opening remarks.
He said the program was designed to strengthen students' understanding of media literacy while encouraging them to use media responsibly.
During the workshop, FISIP lecturer Dr. Gabriel Maniagasi introduced participants to the fundamentals of news writing, including the inverted pyramid structure and the six essential elements of reporting – who, what, when, where, why, and how.
Drawing on his experience as a journalist, Maniagasi also discussed how to gather information in the field, verify facts, and maintain accuracy in news reporting.
"When writing a news story, you must present facts, not your personal opinions," said Maniagasi, a former reporter for Jubi and Suara Pembaruan.
His sessions also covered the basics of journalism, the journalistic code of ethics, and the structure of a news article.
Senior Jubi editor Dominggus A. Mampioper, who also served as a trainer, delivered sessions on interviewing techniques, field reporting, and news writing. Participants also engaged in discussions about the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism.
One participant, Pigay, an International Relations student at FISIP, said AI should be viewed as a tool to assist users rather than replace their judgment.
"For me, AI is useful for helping complete assignments more efficiently, but the final decisions remain in the hands of the user," Pigay said.
Many participants shared similar views, saying AI can be a valuable aid in academic writing when used responsibly.
Responding to the discussion, Maniagasi said advances in AI technology can also support journalists in the news production process, provided it is used ethically and responsibly.