Strengthening the future of Welsh language journalism

The importance of skilled and trained Welsh language journalists needed to support a healthy and effective Welsh media industry was the topic of discussion at a panel event on Wednesday evening.

Menna Richards, formerly Managing Director of HTV Wales and also Director BBC Cymru Wales until 2011, led a panel discussion of Welsh journalists and editors to address the shortage of trained Welsh Language journalists and communicators.

The event marked the launch of Cardiff University's new Joint Honours Welsh and Journalism degree which will mean for the first time, students will have the opportunity to study both subjects through the medium of Welsh.

The new degree which has been designed in response to the high demand for journalists with Welsh language and journalistic skills will combine academic rigour and analysis with opportunities for work experience and practical extra-curricular activities.

The degree will be delivered by Cardiff University's School of Welsh and School of Journalism, Media and Cultural Studies and is supported by Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol.

Menna Richards said, "There will be a warm welcome for this new Welsh and Journalism degree amongst students and employers. There is a significant demand for Welsh speaking graduates with journalistic skills.

"The School of Welsh at Cardiff University have historically led across several disciplines while the School of Journalism, Media and Cultural Studies has a strong reputation across Britain. The collaboration of these schools along with the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlathol is a guarantee this will be a degree of the highest standard."

The evening's panellists were: 

Betsan Powys - Programmes Editor, Radio Cymru
Vaughan Roderick - Welsh Affairs Editor, BBC
Siân Morgan - Reporter and Deputy Editor, Y Byd ar Bedwar
Dylan Iorwerth - Editorial Director, Golwg