Azerbaijan, Baku / Trend / Azerbaijan's leading mobile operator Azercell Telecom JV, has implemented a new media-oriented strategy "Inkisaf? Paylasmaq Platformas?" (Development Sharing Platform) which focuses on the development of high-quality journalism in Azerbaijan which began at the beginning of 2007, the company reports. This strategy is a new stage in the company's development of close relations with mass media and it aims at sharing Azercell's development as a leading telecommunications company of the region with the press, which is a mirror of society.
Taking into consideration that independent and powerful media is an important factor for the development of civil society Azercell started implementing different projects within its strategy in order to support the mission of journalism in Azerbaijan. The mobile operator's next project focusing on the development of the press is a language course for journalists.
Azercell Telecom JV and US Embassy in Azerbaijan have started the realization of the project English Language Courses for Azerbaijani Journalists. Professional English Teachers from Azerbaijan are preparing special curriculum for Azerbaijani journalists together with American specialists. Qualified English language teachers will conduct classes, focusing on the development of writing and reporting skills. The courses are open to active mid-career journalists working for print, electronic, and broadcast media. Candidates must have at least two years experience as a journalist and be able to demonstrate an affiliation with a media organization and commitment to seven-month courses by submitting a Letter of Recommendation by the Chief of the organization.
English courses will be conducted in Baku from November 2007 through May 2008. Thirty participants will be selected to participate in two Elementary and one Intermediate level classes. More information on this project can be found at www.azercell.com .