By Everest Hala
Students at the Tonga National University (TNU) School of Media and Journalism are set to gain hands-on broadcasting experience through a new partnership between the Pacific Cooperation Broadcasting Limited (PCBL) and local institutions aimed at expanding sports and media content production across the Pacific.
The initiative will see mobile broadcasting equipment distributed to TNU's media and journalism school allowing students to produce professional-quality live streams and digital content using smartphones.
The equipment package includes a Samsung phone with charging kit, tripod with pan-handle and mobile lock, wireless microphone set, hardshell storage case, and software licences that allow users to stream directly to YouTube or record content for later editing and distribution.
PCBL representative Junior Hunter said the project formed part of a broader youth focused strategy to create a Pacific-wide ecosystem of sports content produced by young people.
"We are trying to create an ecosystem and give young people a platform," Hunter said.
"We're not trying to compete with existing broadcasters. This is about providing opportunities for those who don't currently have a platform or a voice to express themselves through sports production."
The technology centres on Cam One, a mobile application developed to transform smartphones into portable broadcasting units capable of live-streaming sporting events complete with scoreboards, sponsorship graphics, commentary and messaging.
Hunter said the concept was developed by Cam One founder Peter Tainui, a former sports broadcasting professional who worked with major organisations including FIFA, World Rugby and international cricket bodies.
"The idea was to take the concept of an outside broadcast truck and condense it into a mobile phone," he said.
The initiative is supported by New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and forms part of PCBL's effort to strengthen sports broadcasting and digital storytelling across Pacific communities.
Trianing future media professionals
During the presentation, TNU School of Media and Journalism head Nanise Fifita welcomed the support, highlighting the challenges faced by Tonga's only local journalism training institution.
"There is no dedicated radio or television training studio," Fifita said.
"We are constantly seeking assistance from donors and partners because we train future media professionals who go on to work in organisations such as Tonga Broadcasting Commission."
Hunter said the partnership could create opportunities for students to connect with media organisations across the Pacific and beyond.
"There is an opportunity to make connections for students to work with other broadcasters and journalism organisations throughout the region and beyond the shorelines," he said.
PCBL plans to finalise agreements with participating institutions before training sessions begin and equipment is formally handed over in the coming weeks.
The project is expected to help students develop practical digital media skills while increasing the visibility of Pacific sports and community stories throughout the region and among Pacific diaspora audiences overseas.
An equipment kit is also donated to Tupou Toloa College, one of the two schools participating in the partnership.
