* Any views expressed in this opinion piece are those of the author and not of Thomson Reuters Foundation.
Kamal Raj Sigdel is the Senior Sub-Editor of The Kathmandu Post, one of the largest-selling English newspapers in Nepal, and is an alumnus of a 10-day “Reporting on HIV/AIDs” Reuters course in Nairobi. He reflected on his time with the Thomson Reuters Foundation during November of 2009 when we interviewed him early this week.
How did you become a journalist?
When I started my bachelor’s degree, I discovered that I had an interest
in media, and in writing particularly. This inspired me to do my master’s thesis on a media-related subject – the male gaze and ideological formations in Nepalese TV commercials. After I graduated, I continued to carry out research on the constructs of the media in Nepal. These were the foundations that were crucial to me becoming a journalist.
What was the best part of the course you took?
The course was really helpful in teaching me how to write feature stories and
hard news. I didn’t have much experience in reporting back then, so the
training installed some professional skills in my work.
How did the course impact your writing or approach to journalism?
I can’t say I did a U-turn in my approach to journalism, but it
was helpful in making my writing more balanced and clear.
What is your favorite story you've reported on thus far?
I have many favorites, but the story I did about sex workers in Nairobi is my best work.
What story would you most like to write in the near future and why?
I would like to write more about human rights, as well as political issues and efforts to bring about peace.
What are the major challenges faced by journalists in your country?
In addition to the low salary, there is a lack of resources available to journalists in Nepal, particularly when it comes to security and protection.
Describe an average day at work.
My day starts early in the morning when our editorial team reviews our newspaper for the day. We start discussing and planning which news stories we want to cover that day over the phone. Around 1:00, I all come into the office and talk in person about daily stories. I then sit down at my desk and begin to edit the stories filed by our junior reporters. I work with the other editors to clear all the stories from the news bureau around 9 or 10 pm and head home.
What seven words/phrases would you use to describe your country and its people?
Beautiful country, mountains, Mt. Everest, Lord Buddha's birthplace, humble people, between China and India, economic giants
