News Puppies

When did opinion became personal attack?

2008-04-03T08:42:00.005+02:00

It is disturbing to always read that the mere opinion of some people is regarded a personal attack by others. What happened to our democratic freedom of speech and expression? Disregad of our constitution is becoming the norm. Jacob Zuma is being portrayed by certain elements within the ruling party as an untouchable angel. Barney Pityana and other prominent individuals of our country were called names merely for making their opinions known about the state of the country's politics. They are crucified as Mbeki's puppets for being uncertain about the current ANC leadership. Barney Pityana is an academic leader at UNISA and he is entitled to have opinions on certain issues. The media needs to play its role, it should remind those "elements" that Freedom of Expression and Speech is allowed in this country.

White Exodus

2008-03-19T13:41:00.004+02:00

Max Du Preez was on 3 Talk yesterday. An interesting issue popped up. He lambasted white South Africans who have chosen, or are in the process of leaving the country. He said people in SA fail to separate politics from their country. People can criticize their politicians, Eskom etc, and still remain fiercly patriotic. Du Preez used an American analogy; Americans are very critical of Bush, embarrassed even, but they never openly declare their COUNTRY as an abomination. Du Preez asked the question; why are white South Africans being so critical,and negative about their country? It is not the country that has a problem, it is some of the administrators that are bringing the whole country's image down.

40 days and Underground...

2008-03-14T15:59:00.005+02:00

Today we celebrated our 40 days underground in the dungeon!These are the first pics revealing where all our hardwork gets done...!
Celebrities grace our midst from time to time at Gallo Music Group..!

I'm also sad and angry...

2008-03-13T16:11:00.001+02:00

I was sadned by what happened in Parktown North on the 4th March when Maryl Visser's family experienced a tradegy. The family was attacked by robbers who killed her husband and left her and her son fighting for thier lives in hospital.
My friends and I go past Parktown North in the morning on our way to work. This week we took a different route but still via Parktown North and I believe to have recognized the Visser house from the pictures on The Times front page last week. On the garage there are print letters that read: "WE LOVE YOU"...since then, everytime we go via that route my body all of a sudden gets cold and its almost like I am reading the article again and I am present at that stage. I get so angry when thinking about the stats that show SA's crime rate as having gone down but people are still being robbed and killed more often than not..!That place has left a part of me COLD..![please click on the link above if you have not read the story]...

Never Give Up...

2008-03-11T15:22:00.004+02:00

The cartoonist,Zapiro, just never gives up.He is being sued by Jacob Zuma. The ANC president claims that cartoons published by Zapiro were defaming to his character, but Zapiro keeps pulling out more.
The cartoons are hilarious, sometimes accurate and always give u something to think about. You always wonder how he can top the last cartoon and he always suprises you!
We wonder what Zapiro has up his sleeve for tommorow's cartoon, after all, Zuma just won his appeal at the Constitutional Court.

Another murder, and it's getting personal

2008-03-10T07:42:00.004+02:00

Damn, Damn, Damn. I'm so bloody angry. This morning I got some terrible news. A young woman who travels on my bus is now a widow, because some buggers decided to stab her husband on Saturday. Our bus commuters are tight knit, so all of us were devastated this morning when we found out that one of our own has been murdered. Just last week, this beautiful young lady was showing us her wedding photos, she seemed so happy; I remember her saying that her husband is such a hunk. Agh, the angst that I feel right now is immense, I'm angry and I want to do something, now!!! We need to do something about the scourge that we are facing, enough is enough.

AWESOME: The sun behind a single cloud in the afternoon just outside the Avusa Media building, Rosebank, Johannesburg.

2008-03-07T15:40:00.005+02:00

Sowetan must be careful!

2008-03-05T13:23:00.004+02:00

On Tuesday March 4 2008, Sowetan published a story about a man who is alleged to have set fire to the ANC headquaters, Luthuli House. What made the article different from those in other newspapers was the fact that, the alleged arsonist's identity and name was published.
This was done despite the media law that requires reporters not to identify or name people suspected of committing a crime before they appear and plead to the charges in the court of law. The same article was published by The Times, but the person was never identified or named because they had never pleaded to the charges. What made Sowetan do the opposite?

Undeserving Celebs?

2008-03-04T15:18:00.005+02:00

Finally the awards that "recognise" talents of local artists took place over the weekend.But whether it truly RECOGNISED the "real" talent is the question on everyone's lips this week.
The Mzansi Awards on Friday named Menzi Ngubane - alias Sibusiso Ndlomo of Generations - Star Actor of Mzansi, beating the likes of Robert Whitehead and Sello Maake ka Ncube. Now, in our opinion, this was a serious misjudgement on their part. I mean come on, Barker Haines is the man, so how can he not win that award? Menzi fails to pronounce his words properly: "Exchuse me" instead of excuse me, to mention one.
Perhaps acting is not really taken into account, but rather popularity. Are we giving our actors the true recognition they deserve? One wonders what criteria qualifies one to be a great actor?

End of the week

2008-02-29T15:35:00.003+02:00

29th March
It is finally the end of the week. The weekend is certainly a welcome break. This week we had to shadow more established journalists working the Avusa stable. Although being someone's tail is not fun, being exposed to the everyday aspects of being a journalist was. Some of us got to meet celebrities, others got to be behind the camera while others just got to stare.

This wonderful exposure to the news room meant that many guys in the group got published. Congratulations to everyone. We are well on our way of taking over. Here is some of the published work from Luphert, Luzuko, Majola, Lerato and Lebogang (take a bow guys).

We are doing it!

2008-02-28T15:43:00.003+02:00

Hello there....Yes, you! You see I find it is so hard to blog, its something that i really am working on and today I'm doing this alone. I must say, i'm pretty impressed with my fellow newspuppies. I'm sure they would agree with me, this week has been one of the most productive weeks for all of us. We've had our stories published, which is not only inspiring, but definitely worth the blood, sweat and tears we've had to endure. I'm personally having the time of my life, the passion is begining to emerge. I must admit, for one moment I was cursing my ancestors: "what the hell were you thinking Candy?", yep, it got that far. But these last couple of days have been wonderful. With speakers like the guy from Sweden we had, I couldn't ask for a better experience. I'm looking forward to what the rest of the year has to offer. Until then, take care.

Rekindling The Love

2008-02-26T15:38:00.000+02:00

Hey there fellow blogumists, there's no we today, it's just Vumani flying solo for today. I've rekindled my love for journalism today (not that the love was fully extinguished; the flint was temporarily drenched in fatigue). Anyway today I met popular radio personality Glen Lewis, by the way he prefers to be called a radio personality instead of a DJ,quite silly isn't it. What an awesome and laid back guy he proved to be. He'll be featuring in the Sunday Times' My Jozi segment, luckily for me I was able to accompany the journo who interviewed him. I even got a chance to throw in a few questions here and there, some very intelligent questions at that might I add. With a story of mine being published in the Sowetan today, things are looking on the up. Anyway got to go. Check out Glenzito's piece in the Metro section on Sunday,and keep tapping away my fellow scribes. Lata.

Stereotypical Discussions

2008-02-25T15:18:00.003+02:00

The stifling conditions in the Dungeon, (yes, the dungeon, it really is a dungeon) i.e the lack of a functioning air conditioner, malfunctioning computers, sharing one phone with 12 eager journos; thesonditions are designed to separate the wheat from the chaffe. Typically these conditions are not supposed to be condusive to a good working environment, but if we survive this then we can make it anywhere.

Moving on; considering that there are so many different ethnicities and cultures within the group, there have been some understandable cultural misunderstandings. We tend to brand each other according to stereotypical perceptions. Sometimes this can be quite comical. Here are some of the gems: 1. Zulus are militant (go Shaka!!!) 2. Xhosas are considered to be conniving (Xhosanostra: think mafia) 3. Sotho women are cheeky (rebelling against everything) 4. Coloureds are all believed to be alcoholics and are considered animals in bed (the list goes on and on and on, but this does not apply for our coloureds).

All jokes aside stereotypes are generalisations, they are not necessarily true. Everyone is unique and has their own idiosyncrasies, it was fun though poking fun at each other. Lata.

How could you Mr. Khoza?

2008-02-20T15:35:00.003+02:00

In a media briefing this week 2010 LOC Chairman and owner of Orlando Pirates, Irvin Khoza told a journalist to “Stop thinking like a K$%@#r”. According to him, he was referring to a “K$%@#r as a dubious character and unreliable.”

We think that it was very unprofessional of Mr Khoza to address the journalist in such a manner. This is a man who has dealt with journalists and the media for a number of years in his line of work and he should know better.
People who are not journalists or in the media, are quick to sue, claiming that their characters have been defamed by statements made by journalists. In the context in which the word was previously used under the apartheid regime (and the word is still very heavy in itself) the journalist should consider seeking legal advice.
Mr Khoza should also offer a public apology to the journalist and more so to South Africans.

The reality of the courts

2008-02-19T16:26:00.001+02:00

Forget about Denny Crane and Alan Shore...in South Africa we have a whole different legal system.
The group had an introduction to court reporting and spent the past two days at the Johannesburg Magistrates Court. We were shocked at the level of order or lack thereof. For example, we got to the information service to look at the times in which the court cases begin but we were shocked to learn how long they took to begin.
A couple of the court cases would actually commence an hour later than scheduled. postponed. Even more shocking to learn was that the very same cases we would be waiting for would be moved to a later date. Most of them would be moved to March (Lerato had one that was moved to June).
There is alot of sloppy police work, negligent prosecutors and lazy attorneys who have not filled in affidavits.
At the end of the day, our legal system is nothing like what we see on TV. The different groups that we set ourselves up into had to move from one court to another. This is because the hearing we went to would take hours to begin and we would constantly be checking when they start.!We are calling for the restructuring of our legal system.

The week started off on a sad note....

2008-02-19T16:11:00.003+02:00

Friday afternoon, Isidingo actress, Ashley Callie died in hospital after a car accident. The daily newspapers had been reporting that her condition was stable. Her shocked fans have started support groups dedicated to Callie on social network sites.
Former Abashante member, Tebogo "Zombo" Ndlovu, died Sunday evening after a long illness. He recently revealed his HIV status and admitted that he was not taking ARV's.
A news website is reporting the death of a crime reporter in Johannesburg. Francois du Plessis died in a car accident on Sunday evening. He was 24.
Our condolences to the grieving families.

Freedom of the media

2008-02-15T13:44:00.004+02:00

Today at the seminar that was conducted by Dario Milo of Webber Wentzel Bowens, an interesting discussion emerged about media reporting and hate speech. The group felt that this topic was rather interesting and not an easy one to resolve. We discussed the UKhozi FM dilemma about the song AmaNdiya by Mbongeni Ngema, and there appeared to be very different views: Some thought that the song was a should be allowed under freedom of expression, while others felt it was hate speech and discrimination against the Indian nation. What are your views on the matter?

South African’s future under JZ

2008-02-13T16:17:00.001+02:00

Yesterday we had an interesting exchange of views with political analyst, columnist, writer and publisher,Justice Malala, about the future of South Africa under the ANC President Jacob Zuma. Malala highlighted the crucial point, the issue that is much debated and talked about currently; and that is the future economic prospects of the country. The big question is: “Will JZ change the economic policies to appease Cosatu and SACP or continue with the existing policies which are favouring the business community. Malala feels that the ANC made a bad move by choosing JZ – saying he is not fit to lead the country; and that people generally are uneasy about the change of leadership.

The newspuppies group was split in two on the potential threat JZ poses to the economy. One of the group members said she feels that no one wants to be led by someone who has a lot of baggage in his life. “He’s got so much on him,” said one group member. Another member said: “ As a president you have to know the basics. He has got to understand the economy. Mbeki knew his stuff, but JZ once said he doesn’t know and that he will find out.” Emotions ran high as some supported JZ and the other half didn't support him.

Is digital technology good for kids?

2008-02-12T15:37:00.003+02:00

Every day people are discovering new ways of improving their lives by using technology. Digital technololgyhas been positively utilised by the Health care industry and other sectors. Digital technology is available in different shapes and forms and can be used by the young and old. Because of competitions between the creators of these gadgets some of them have become more affordable

The number of children who have access to these gadgets has increased. Does technology improve the lives of these children or is it making them lazy and endangering their lives? There is an increase in the number of adults suffering from technology fatigue.

With all the toys they can play with some of the gadgets are not necessary. Children can easily do without them. With children accessing more technology there is less moving around or exercise. What do you all think about this issue?

A slap in the face from Ghana

2008-02-11T15:49:00.000+02:00

There has recently been a poster published by the media portraying the old apartheid flag and associating it with the South African soccer squad in the Africa Cup of Nations games in Ghana. To add to the confusion, Bennie McCarthy is portrayed as being included in the Bafana Bafana team in the recent Afcon games.
The flag has caused quite a row amongst us, as we feel this shows disrespect for South Africa as a country and contender in the Afcon games. By placing the apartheid flag in an advertisement, they clearly show no regard for all the progress South Africa has made thus far. They also demonstrates their insensitivity for the pain and suffering attached to the old flag for South Africans.
Many of us feel that Ghana, and Afcon as an organisation, owe the nation an apology. Let us know what you think.

Traditional Debate

2008-02-08T13:19:00.000+02:00

Hey there people, guess what, Today we are talking about traditional leaders. That topic took you by suprise didn't it? Well our highly opinionated young group was talking the other day, and one of the topics that came up was, in contemporary South Africa, do we still have room for traditional leaders? What role do they play? Pheew... That's a tough one.

After much robust debate amongst members of our group, the differing views were as such:
1. Traditional leaders play a largely ceremonious role, whereby they don't really wield much power.
2. Tradional leaders are the custodians of culture and are part of an interpendent structure within their respective cultures.
3. There is little room for traditional leaders because they are not elected members of any governing institution. Therefore there is very little accountability on their part, which can lead to an abuse of whatever power they may wield.

Well there was really no end to the debate, but the general feeling amongst us bright young things was that they don't really affect our lives personally, professionally or socially, so we do not feel they add much to our lives.
This debate raged on like a fierce and unstoppable inferno. Okay Okay, We're being a bit melodramatic hey alright we'll stop. Chat later.

Yalo takes it!

2008-02-07T15:56:00.000+02:00

In our votes for the best cartoon of the day, we were quite limited in our choices but we gave it to Yalo of the Sowetan. Reason being it touched on relevant issues of the day and it ended being quite funny. Basic premise of the cartoon is : Load Shedding, Rain Shedding, Booze Shedding.....eish, haven't we had enough??

We met with Mondli Makhanya today, he's not as intimidating as we had imagined him to be, pretty nice actually, and we are not trying to suck up! Then there was Tyrone......what a hunk (coming from the ladies in the group). A brilliant guy, awesome sense of humour and he seems to have an open mind about life. Oh, did we mention he's a photographer and an HIV/AIDS Counsellor. Overall the last 2 days have been tough, tougher days are ahead of us but we are ready to face them head-on.

Chat later...bye!

Take over complete-now we write

2008-02-06T13:37:00.000+02:00

Debate of the Day-Is Ubuntu dead?
Yesterday's heated debate was about the relevance of Ubuntu (Umnuntu ngumuntu ngabantu). On one side the group felt that the spirit of ubuntu takes away a person's individuality whilst the other side of the group felt that was a western individualistic way of thinking which does not apply to African reality/culture. The majority felt that the Spirit of Ubuntu has to be upheld- Izandla ziyagezana (One hand washes the other).

Front Page of the day- Today's front pages sucked but Sowetan takes the cake due to the audacity of Somizi's outfit....the guy must be crazy for wearing that cap to court.

Catch us when we critique the various cartoons.

The Blog Take Over is complete

2008-02-05T10:02:00.000+02:00

Hey there people this is the new Avusa Graduate Training Group.We've taken over the blog! Apparently last year there were more females than males but this time around, the tables have definitetly changed with the ratio at 7:5. The past 2 weeks have been interesting to say the least. For the most part, from the beginning we pretty much gelled with each other. We have a very diverse group, with people coming from different parts of the country, different institutions, different social backgrounds and certainly with different ambitions. We expect to work hard but have fun too. At the end of the year we hope to have a clear idea of how the media industry works, be employable as well as know the different cultures of Avusa's publications.

Just to let you know, this is how we are going to be writing the blog. We have separated ourselves into groups of 4. Issues that will be discussed range from current affairs, worst and best front page and anything that might grab our attentlion during the course of the year.

Class of 2008

2007-12-20T12:17:00.000+02:00

Thirteen graduates from around the country have been selected for the 2008 Programme which is now called the Avusa Pearson Journalism Training Programme
They have all returned their signed contracts. We await their arrival in Rosebank on 21 January 2008. Here are their names:
Lekotjolo, Nkosana Prince - BA Pol Sci (UKZN/PG Dip Jour Rhodes
Guvi, Candy B. Soc Rhodes
Chilwane, Luphert BA UNISA
Moeng, Katlego Dipl Journalism Damelin
Molefe, Lehlohonolo BA Wits
Matsaneng, Lerato ND Journalism DUT
Mkhize, Vumani BSoc Sci (Media & Comm) Univ KZN
De Kock, Rochelle BA NMMU
Pongoma, Luzuko ND Journalism WSU
Thulo. Lebohang BJourn Rhodes
Moiloa, Tsebeletso B.Economics/Media Univ Free State
Uithaler, Jocelyn BA.Hons History/B.Phil Journ Univ Stellenbosch
Tsele, Lebogang B. A. Commun/Film Production UJ/Cons Dynamix

Another alumnus achievement

2007-10-23T07:46:00.000+02:00

Sipho Masondo of The Herald/Weekend Post, alumnus of the Johncom Pearson Graduate Training Class of 2004 and survivor of the Port Elizabeth "Big Brother" households, has been accepted for a Journalism M.Phil at Stellenbosch University.
Congratulations to Sipho on his achievement.

Applications have rolled in...

2007-10-19T13:58:00.000+02:00

...and some have gone straight to the spike.
It seems that the first recourse of many of the more than 120 applicants when faced with the admittedly prosaic, if not downright boring, title Young People and Transport was to type youth + transport into Google. Well, at least that counts as research.

There are now around 40 applicants on the first shortlist who showed some orginality or journalistic initiative or were scrupulous in attributing information and quotes or simply wrote clearly and coherently or took some care over their work.
We will now begin contacting those people to organise the first interviews.

To those who do not know what it is like to be a young person without transport imagine getting up at 4 am to take a 6 am bus to get to your 8 am class. One of the applicants wrote that she has been doing that for the past two years.

The application deadline was October 5, 2007.

Award Winning Alumni

2007-09-11T15:05:00.000+02:00

Sbongile Dimbaza of Weekend Post and Tom Mapham of the Dispatch (Class of 2005) were both winners in the Eastern Cape regional finals of the Vodacom Journalism awards last week.Tom won in the news category, Sbongile won for his feature on cash-in- transit heists.
Just a few weeks before that Business Day soccer writer Mninawa Ntloko (Class of 2002)was picking up another sports journalist award.This time the Absa Cup award for Best Print Journalism.

Class of 2007

2007-09-03T17:01:00.001+02:00

Advert goes out

2007-09-03T16:46:00.000+02:00

The recruitment advertisement appeared in Sunday Times and Sunday World on Sunday.It was also in dailies today.
Applicants will find the application forms and essay topic on the Johncom Corporate website.

Birth of News Puppies

2007-09-03T16:39:00.000+02:00

This is the first entry of the first blog of the Johncom Pearson Journalism Graduate Training Programme Class of 2008.