ICYF International Media Training Camp 2025 in Turkey: Applications Open for Aspiring Journalists The Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum (ICYF), in partnership with TRT (Türkiye Radio and Television Corporation), is offering a fully funded International Media Training Camp in Antalya, Türkiye, in September 2025. This intensive program, themed "Journalism for Juniors," aims to equip young individuals with essential journalistic skills and ethical principles in the rapidly evolving media landscape. The application deadline has been extended to July 24, 2025.

Empowering Young Voices in Media The 6-day training camp is designed for individuals aged 18-25 from OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) member states and Muslim minorities from non-OIC countries. Participants will engage in workshops, practical exercises, and networking opportunities, focusing on digital storytelling, mobile journalism, and media ethics. The program emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and responsible reporting in the digital age.

A Fully Funded Opportunity The ICYF covers a range of expenses for selected participants, including:

Local transportation within Antalya Accommodation and meals A cultural city tour Reimbursement of international flight costs up to $250 Domestic travel expenses within Türkiye up to 3500₺ Visa application support (visa costs are the participant's responsibility)

Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a joint certificate from ICYF and TRT, a valuable credential for aspiring media professionals.

Program Details and Dates The training camp is divided into two sessions:

Young men: September 8-13, 2025 Young women: September 15-20, 2025

The camp will be held at the Alaaddin Keykubat Gençlik Kampı in Antalya, Türkiye.

Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the ICYF International Media Training Camp, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be between 18 and 25 years old Possess a strong command of the English language Be a citizen of an OIC Member State, a Muslim youth from an OIC Member State, or a Muslim minority from a non-OIC Member State Demonstrate a strong interest in media-related projects Be eager to learn about media issues and topics Be committed to attending the entire training program

The Importance of Media Literacy and Youth Engagement Dr. Elif Kaya, a professor of Media Studies at Istanbul University, emphasizes the critical role of initiatives like the ICYF Media Training Camp. "In an era defined by misinformation and rapidly evolving digital platforms, equipping young people with the skills to critically analyze and ethically produce media content is paramount," she states. "This program not only provides practical training but also fosters a sense of responsibility and global citizenship among future journalists."

The Rise of Citizen Journalism and the Need for Ethical Guidelines The ICYF Media Training Camp arrives at a crucial time, as citizen journalism and social media have blurred the lines between professional reporting and personal expression. According to Ahmed Hassan, a media consultant specializing in digital journalism, "The democratization of media has empowered individuals to share their stories, but it has also created challenges related to accuracy, bias, and ethical considerations. Programs like this are essential for instilling ethical values and promoting responsible reporting practices among young media creators."

Application Process Interested candidates must submit an online application through the ICYF website. The application requires personal and educational information, links to social media profiles, emergency contact details, and responses to questions about media experience and motivation. Applicants must also agree to the ICYF International Media Training Camp for Journalism for Juniors Code of Conduct.

Register on the official website. Fill out the application form. Provide social media links. Enter emergency contact details. Answer experience and motivation questions. Accept the Code of Conduct. Submit the application.

Applications will be evaluated based on eligibility and criteria, and shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview.

Historical Context and Future Impact The ICYF's initiative builds upon a growing global recognition of the importance of media literacy and youth engagement in shaping public discourse. Similar programs have been launched by organizations like UNESCO and the United Nations, aiming to empower young people to become informed and responsible media consumers and producers. The ICYF Media Training Camp contributes to this broader effort by focusing on the specific needs and challenges faced by youth from OIC member states and Muslim minority communities.

The extended deadline provides a valuable opportunity for aspiring journalists to apply for this fully funded training camp and embark on a journey to develop their skills, expand their networks, and contribute to a more informed and responsible media landscape.