Teenagers given airtime to speak out on AIDS and violence

Jordanian adolescents have been given the chance to speak on local and satellite television channels about critical issues, related to World AIDS Day and ahead of International Children’s Day of Broadcasting. Some 25 young people, aged 12 to 17, have been working with UNICEF, in cooperation with the Jordanian government, to produce and broadcast a series of television programmes aimed at young audiences. Participants, coming from the capital Amman and the city of Zarqa in the east of the country, have researched, planned and produced a handful of shows focusing on contentious issues, such as HIV/AIDS and violence against children. A portion of airtime is also devoted to lighter issues, such as sports. “It was a great experience,” said 16 year-old Amal al-Emlah. “We had the chance to express ourselves and speak about the problems we face.” Al-Emlah explained that she and other project participants researched cases related to abuse and neglect. “We hope that we can help through our shows,” she added. The programme, called “Our Time has Come,” will give young people the chance “to say what they want, in the manner they want,” explained UNICEF spokesperson in Amman Hind Lara-Mango. The first episode was aired on local Jordanian television and on its sister satellite channel on 2 December, with two more to be broadcast every Friday at the same time for the following two weeks. Episodes feature discussions about critical issues and conversations with abused children. The show will be also include cameos by UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors, such as Egyptian actor Mahmoud Kabil and British footballer David Beckham. The last episode will coincide with the International Children's Day of Broadcasting on 16 December, when participants will go live to evaluate their experiences, host guest speakers and take phone calls from viewers. The International Children’s Day of Broadcasting is commemorated every year. Through its 165 field offices, UNICEF encourages broadcasters to open their studios to young people, with the aim of airing programming presented from children's perspectives.