Journalism in Sri Lanka with Projects Abroad

  Sri Lanka

Colombo Central

Durations of Program: 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 3-6 months
Dates: All Year Round (you set the start and end date)

Description: For those seeking to gain cutting-edge work experience in journalism this is a fantastic opportunity. Whilst living and working in the buzzing capital, Colombo, you will gain an incredible amount of work experience. In this city there is never a dull moment and youll find plenty to report on.

Projects Abroad now have both print and radio journalism placements running in Colombo, Sri Lankas capital. Please note that to volunteer on either the print or radio journalism placements you must have some basic previous journalistic experience, a high level of written English and a passion for journalism. You will be asked to submit your CV and a sample article when you apply.

This placement is ideal for university students and graduates. However, if you are an experienced journalist then there are also plenty of opportunities for you too. This is your chance to put together a portfolio of journalistic work whilst living on the beautiful island of Sri Lanka.

Print Journalism Placements in Sri Lanka with Projects Abroad

Print journalism volunteers will work at either a national daily or weekly English language publication. The papers we work with feature articles on current affairs, arts, sport and business. Researching, interviewing, feature writing and reporting will all be part of your daily tasks. You can expect that you will be set a variety of assignments; one day you may be reviewing a play, the next you may find yourself at a cocktail party or writing about business and commerce, or reporting on the latest news.

This Journalism placement is only for volunteers who can dedicate a minimum of three months to their time in Sri Lanka. Throughout your internship you will get the chance to shadow reporters, learn top tips and techniques and ultimately become a roving reporter pursuing your own ideas and contacts.

Radio Journalism Placements in Sri Lanka with Projects Abroad

The TNL Radio Network is based in the heart of Colombo. Depending on your interests and experience you could work in the following areas; broadcasting, sales and marketing, creative writing, news journalism and there are also opportunities within the technical department. The hours of work are flexible and volunteers could be expected to work late into the evening or even at weekends, if the work requires it.

The head of the radio station also prefers that you apply for at least a three month placement and requests that you submit a copy of your CV when you apply. Volunteers need to view this as a serious work placement, and the head of the station would prefer to accept volunteers who have already completed at least one year of university and are looking to pursue journalism as a career.

On this placement your input will be greatly encouraged and appreciated, especially if you prove to be adaptable and willing. Take every opportunity presented to you and you will reap the journalistic rewards!

Highlights: Sri Lanka, Emerald Isle of the Indian Ocean, is home to heavy warm air, sweet fruit scents and incense and bright colors pouring out of every nook and cranny. From the extraordinarily lush foliage and bright offerings of flowers outside temples, to orange robed monks under their umbrellas and glamorous Sari's whizzing past on the back of motorbikes (normally with the limbs of their child peeping out between the mother and the driver!), there are many fascinating and beautiful sights to be enjoyed.

All accommodation is organized, paid for, and monitored by Projects Abroad. All project placements are regularly visited and checked. We require high standards of supervision and accommodation, which are verified before you arrive in Sri Lanka.

This project offers the opportunity to become fully immersed in the culture in a manner which even the most hardened of backpackers could never hope to do.

Qualifications: From print journalism: Please note that to take part in this placement you must have some basic previous journalistic experience, a high level of written English and a passion for journalism. You will be asked to submit your CV and a sample article when you apply. This placement is ideal for university students and graduates. However, if you are an experienced journalist then there are also plenty of opportunities for you too.

Cost in US$: From USD 3,995 and up

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Open-minded with a desire to travel.

Age Range: 16-80

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Sri Lanka Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Projects Abroad's Mission Statement: As part of the global economy, Projects Abroad helps create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. This local knowledge and support enables the organization to channel the skills of the volunteers from more affluent countries to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet, and they gain experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

Year Founded: 1992