The Honorable Secretary of State for Communication, Information and Information Technology, Mrs. Fatim Badjie-Janneh, has called on the young and aspiring journalists in the country to take the field of journalism seriously.

She made this remark during the first anniversary celebration of the Young Journalists Association of The Gambia, on Tuesday, Sepember 16, at the NaNA Conference hall in Kanifing.

She re-iterated her commitment towards supporting young people, especially the young journalists, to become responsible journalists who will protect the good image of their country. "Reach out and offer community services to your people, attitude is every thing and we need a positive change, but it all depends on us. Help the aspiring journalists to understand the profession and offer recommendation letters for employment, be professional, ready and timely," those were the inspirational words of the DoSCI & IT Secretary of State, Fatim Badjie-Janneh.

As the chief guest of honor at the occasion, SoS Badjie-Janneh implored the young journalists to always read and listen to news and invest in books, cameras and tape recorders. "Be neutral and always keep the position just to inform but not to take sides or allow your views to be taken over, let the readers decide," she said.

 She also encouraged the Young Journalists Association to extend their membership to the youngsters working in the Radio, Television and other media outlets. SoS Badjie applauded the initiative of the Young Journalists Association and encouraged YJAG to work hard while assuring them of her fullest support, noting that as young journalists they deserved support.

The theme for the celebration was; "The role of Journalists in national development." The relevance of the theme cannot be over emphasized as it reminds journalists of their contribution to the development of the country and also enlighten the general public that journalists are partners in development.

Pa Modou Fall of The Point newspaper, who also doubles as the Treasurer of The Gambia Press Union, chaired the ceremony.