CNN Academy Abu Dhabi Opens Applications for Version 3

CNN Academy Abu Dhabi Applications have opened for the third edition of its journalism training programme. The app is open to UAE nationals and residents over the age of 21 with a background and/or interest in media and multi-platform storytelling.

The 12-week CNN Academy Abu Dhabi program will focus on climate stories as COP28, the United Nations climate change conference in 2023, takes place in the UAE. Fellows will learn from CNN’s top reporters how to engage audiences with one of the world’s most pressing issues.

At the community hub, part of twofour54’s Yas Creative Hub in Abu Dhabi, successful applicants will attend face-to-face workshops and webinars to learn how CNN gathers information, verifies sources and produces content for its multiple platforms. The Community Center, which also houses CMA’s Creative Lab, will provide facilities and infrastructure, including equipment, learning resources, student liaison and outreach, and graduation ceremonies.

CNN will work with the Creative Lab, part of the Talent Development Department of the Creative Media Authority, to help identify high-quality applicants for the program from across the UAE.

Commenting on the third edition of the programme, Khalfan Al Mazrouei, Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority, said: “CNN Academy Abu Dhabi plays a vital role in combining technical and hands-on training with renowned media companies – creating a unique The coveted opportunity for aspiring journalists. The goal of training programs like CNN Academy Abu Dhabi is to develop capable and talented individuals who can pursue full-time employment. As a CMA develop media industry skills and knowledge and part of our duty to simplify career training in the industry, we are proud to support this unique opportunity with a world-renowned and respected news organization such as CNN.”

Building on the success of the inaugural industry-first newsroom simulation last December, participants will apply the skills acquired throughout the course in an intensive competitive challenge to investigate and report on an ongoing climate catastrophe in a fictional country.

becky andersonCNN Abu Dhabi Editor-in-Chief and Connect the World anchor, added: “Climate change is one of the biggest events of our time, and with the United Nations meeting in the UAE, we will simultaneously focus our newsroom simulation on how Covering the climate crisis as a journalist and storyteller. This is a great opportunity to learn new skills and increase your career opportunities, and I look forward to seeing applications from this year’s fellows.”

With guidance and knowledge sharing from senior CNN journalists, production experts and renowned content creators within the Abu Dhabi ecosystem, as well as the support of a creative lab, participants will complete ten core courses on topics including journalistic ethics, breaking news reporting and Radio screenwriter.