Ouagadougou: Konwoman Journalism Intern Rufin Par, completing his training at the Institute of Information and Communication Sciences and Technology (ISTIC), successfully defended his final year dissertation, achieving an impressive average of 18/20.

According to Burkina Information Agency, during his thesis defense held on Tuesday, September 23, Rufin Par addressed the necessity of adaptation in the media industry within a digital world. He emphasized the inevitability of media evolution driven by the internet, which has become the central support for various media formats, including television, radio, and traditional print media. Despite predictions of their decline, Par argued that reinvention and adaptation are critical to survival.

In his presentation, Par commended the initiatives taken by ditions Sidwaya to embrace digital transformation, such as the introduction of Sidwaya digital (PDF version of the newspaper), Sidwaya mobile (information by SMS), online archive sales, and the marketing of advertising space on digital platforms. However, he pointed out that these efforts alone are not sufficient.

Par recommended expanding the web editorial team and integrating ongoing digital skills training for journalists, emphasizing that modern journalists must also be adept with web technologies. Furthermore, he urged Sidwaya to reassess its business model to cater to an audience accustomed to free online content. He suggested that enhancing content appeal and fostering audience loyalty are vital for monetizing audiences with advertisers.

Par also called for increased state support to facilitate Sidwaya’s digital transition, proposing the allocation of more resources and financial flexibility.

The jury, led by Abdou Zour, co-publishing director of Faso7, commended Par for the quality of his work. Rapporteur Jolivet Emmas Sidib Pagbelguem, technical advisor to the Director General of ditions Sidwaya, highlighted the relevance of his thematic choice.

In the words of thesis director Baba Hama, Rufin Par effectively identified the major challenges confronting public media while offering practical solutions for adaptation and competitiveness in the digital era.