AUB Foundation Against Cancer Holds Second Online Masterclass Session on Cervical Cancer for Journalists

The African Union of Broadcasting, AUB Foundation Against Cancer, has successfully held the second session of its ongoing online Masterclass for Journalists, with a focused engagement on cervical cancer, one of the most preventable yet deadly gynaecological cancers affecting women across Africa.

The Masterclass series, conducted virtually, forms part of AUB’s broader commitment to leveraging the media for public interest communication, particularly in the areas of health education, early detection, and cancer prevention. The online format has enabled journalists from different countries to participate and engage with experts across borders.

The session was delivered in two complementary parts.

The first segment, which addressed the medical and clinical aspects of cervical cancer, was presented by Dr. Esson Mapoko Berthe, Medical Oncologist at the Central Hospital, Yaounde, Cameroon. Dr. Berthe provided participants with critical insights into cervical cancer prevention, early screening methods, diagnosis, treatment options, and the importance of timely medical intervention. She emphasized that cervical cancer is largely preventable when detected early, stressing the need for increased public awareness and access to screening services.

The second segment focused on the journalistic aspects of cancer reporting and was facilitated by Mr. Emmanuel Wongibe, Deputy Director General at Cameroon Radio Television (CRTV). This session equipped journalists with practical skills on identifying key cancer stakeholders, sourcing credible cancer stories, developing compelling storytelling angles, and applying effective interview techniques when engaging medical experts, patients, advocacy groups, and policymakers.

Participants were encouraged to adopt responsible, ethical, and solutions-oriented reporting approaches that help demystify cancer, address stigma, and promote early screening and treatment, particularly for gynaecological cancers that remain underreported across many African communities.

Through this online Masterclass series, the AUB, through its Foundation Against Cancer, continues to reaffirm its commitment to informing and educating the public, advancing early screening, and supporting the effective management of gynaecological cancers through strategic media engagement and capacity building.

The next session in the Masterclass series will take place in two weeks, as it sustains efforts to build a strong network of journalists dedicated to accurate, ethical, and impactful cancer reporting across Africa.