resources: misa exchange program
As part of its ongoing commitment to training, MISA offers a scholarship exchange programme, which is facilitated by the Regional Secretariat in Windhoek, Namibia.
The programme assists individual media practitioners in all areas of the media (managerial, editorial, advertising, and technical) to work on attachment in another media institution to learn new skills and develop existing ones. This includes both full-time employees and freelancers. Individuals who are involved in human rights organisations in a media capacity may also be considered.
All applicants must be MISA members and annual subscriptions to the relevant MISA national chapter must be paid up in full. Applications can be made at any time of the year.
objectives
- This programme supports candidates who wish to work on attachment at media institutions in either their own country or elsewhere within the SADC region. The intention is to learn new skills or to improve and develop existing ones. The attachments can be for periods ranging from 3 weeks to 3 months.
- The programme also supports staff and office-bearers from MISA’s national chapters for attachment at the MISA Regional Secretariat and/or at the offices of other national chapters.
applications
The following documentation must be submitted with the application letter:
- A 1000-word essay motivating the application and stating what the applicant wishes to achieve.
- Written acceptance from the organisation to which the applicant wishes to be attached. This acceptance must also specify the period of attachment.
- Written consent from the applicant’s current employer. This consent must approve the individual’s application and absence from work over the relevant period. It must also indicate that the current employer will continue to pay the salary of the employee for the period of the attachment (not applicable to freelancers).
- A budget, which must include all costs e.g. transport, reasonably priced accommodation, and a reasonable stipend. MISA will pay all stipends and accommodation expenses directly to the organisation to which the applicant will be attached.
- Proof of MISA membership (up-to-date receipt for subscription payments to the relevant MISA chapter).
NOTE: The applicants must make all arrangements themselves. The regional secretariat does not get involved with the organisation of placements, travel arrangements, accommodation or any other logistical arrangements. Employers are, however, urged to assist their employees with these arrangements. They benefit directly from this programme because it strengthens the institutional capacity of their organisations.
report
All candidates must submit a written report (at least four A4 pages) to MISA within one month of completing the attachment. This report must detail their work experience during the attachment spelling out the duties performed and what valuable lessons were learned in this period of time.
notes
Applications for attachment outside the SADC region will not be considered. Where possible we will send applicants to cities within their own countries. This applies particularly to junior media workers. If travelling to other countries, applicants must ensure that they are in possession of valid travel documents and permits.
Applications will be rejected if documentation is incomplete. All applications are subject to the approval of MISA and both employers. Where necessary, scholarship funds will be disbursed through the host employer.
The exchange programme does not fund participation in training courses or workshops.
Direct all applications and/or inquiries to:
The Scholarship Exchange Programme
MISA Secretariat
Private bag 13386
Windhoek, Namibia
Email: jennifer@misa.org.na
Tel: (+264 61 232975)
Fax: (+264 61 248016)