A training workshop in Botswana will help Southern African journalists understand plans to release retroviral drugs, as well as other topics related to the fight against HIV and AIDS. The workshop is intended for health and social justice reporters in countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The NSJ Media Training Trust is conducting the intensive workshop, scheduled for 11 July to 22 July. A select number of scholarships will be handed out to participants. Scholarships include: 55 percent of transportation costs to and from the host country, accommodation, meals, tuition and field trips. The organizers are especially encouraging women journalists to apply - even those who are not yet in management positions but planning on taking such a position soon. Full scholarships will go to a select number of women participants. The aim of the course is to help reporters critically analyze and report on efforts to roll out retroviral drugs to the public, as well as the politics and management of those efforts. Participants will examine aspects of their watchdog and educational roles by studying new health policies and programs, while also interacting with health professionals, government agencies, politicians and others.

Deadline: 6 June 2005

For more information, contact nsj@nsjtraining.org, telephone (+258-1) 493-400, fax (+258-1) 490-880, or visit http://www.nsjtraining.org