Center for Media Education and Technology (C-MET)

C-MET was established to promote the use of journalism as a source for positive change. The project organisers say the center provides and supports:

• Subsidised Internet access for media professionals and staff of local NGOs
• Technical capacity building for a variety of institutions (media, civil and NGO)
• Rehabilitation of the national media infrastructure (print and radio media)
• Professional skills enhancement training for media professionals, including computer-assisted research and reporting
• An Internet cybercafé, for use both as a workshop and training center, and for use by the general public during soon-to-be-established hours
• A central website for the media of Sierra Leone at www.cmetfreetown.org which will allow local newspapers and radio stations to publish and broadcast online, side-by-side
• Community-based radio presence(s)
• Capacity building and strengthening of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) and Guild of Newspaper Editors (GNE)
• Research and publication of reports on the media and related issues
• Hands-on training for human rights NGOs on the use of the Internet and electronic mail for advocacy purposes

The CNET Cybercafé launched in 2001 is located at the C-MET offices. The cybercafé consists of 10 computer stations, a laser printer and a scanner. Each station provides users with access to basic Microsoft Office software such as Word and Excel. Customers with no previous experience are encouraged to visit the CNET Cybercafé to set up their own e-mail accounts.

The CNET Cybercafé is also the site for the International League for Human Rights' (ILHR) and C-MET's ongoing training workshops for journalists and NGO staff. These workshops focus on training in electronic communications, Computer-Assisted Research and Reporting, and Internet-based advocacy skills. In keeping with our mission, journalists and students are offered subsidised discounted fees to use CNET Cybercafé's facilities.

Rights, technology, political development.

"By providing the independent media of Sierra Leone with professional skills enhancement training, new technology, and technical support and training, the ILHR and C-MET hoped to initiate a democratic spirit of community reporting that would play a small part in reinvigorating a nation devastated by civil war."