The 2026 BAHons Journalism students engaged with South Africa’s evolving media landscape by attending the Portfolio Committee Meeting on Communication and Digital Technologies on 24 March, followed by the Africa Media Perspectives Conference held in Paarl.

Visit to parliament

Political Reporter for Daily Maverick Suné Payne & Business Day Parliamentary Reporter Tara Roos spoke to the students, sharing industry insights on political reporting such as maintaining a good understanding of the parliamentary system and its impact. 
PHOTO: Zeta Soule

The regulation of podcasts roundtable discussion, led by ICASA chairperson, Mothibi Ramusi, posed the question: “Should podcasts be treated as a broadcasting service under the ICASA mandate?” Various stakeholders were invited to participate in the discussion in the evaluation of regulating podcasts in South Africa.

The BAHons Journalism students  seated in the Good Hope chamber on 24 March 2026. The roundtable discussion was open to all industry leaders and professionals to engage in the discussion led by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) to evaluate emerging trends and new technologies. 
PHOTO: Zeta Soule

One of the honours students, Mophethi Mabeba, asked how policymakers identify gaps without a clear framework. Chief Director of ICT Policy and Research at the South African Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) Collin Mashile said research, industry engagement, and global observation inform policy development. He noted the lack of a clear podcast definition.

BAHons Journalism student, Mophethi Mabeba, asks about identifying policy gaps in podcast regulation.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED/ YouTube Channel Parliament

Africa Media Perspectives

The honours  students were welcomed by the hosts of Africa Media Perspectives, Food For Mzansi co-founders Ivor Price and Kobus Louwrens.
PHOTO: Zeta Soule

After visiting parliament, the students travelled to Paarl on Wednesday to attend the  Africa Media Perspectives conference. Panel discussions and “fireside chats” at this event explored, amongst other things, the creator economy, showing how podcasters and digital influencers are reshaping news, trust, and credibility on the continent.

The BAHons Journalism students of 2026 are seen here engaging with different attendees at the Africa Media Perspectives conference.
PHOTO: Zeta Soule

Panellists also shared their knowledge about reporting from conflict zones, strategies for cross-border investigative journalism, and approaches to sustainable media revenue. Discussions highlighted the use of AI and digital tools in newsrooms, as well as the impact of women journalists across our media landscape.
The Department of Journalism would like to thank everyone who made these two enriching field trips possible for our students.

By Zeta Soule