Student journalists show they can hack it in Africa

Published on Monday 6 October 2008 09:55

TWO young Edinburgh writers have just returned from a trip to Africa, as part of an effort to highlight global poverty.

Jemma Neville and Elliot Ross won the all-expenses paid trips after writing thought-provoking articles on Malawi's disability rights and education for a UK-wide journalism competition.

On their trip they went to Tanzania and Mozambique with local experts, to learn about witchcraft and the education system.

Jemma explored accusations of witchcraft against older women, which can lead to acts of violence, and even murder. Elliot travelled to Tanzania to witness work with rural communities in one of the poorest countries in the world.

Their reports will be submitted to the Guardian International Development Journalism contest.

Douglas Alexander, International Development Secretary, said: "Informed and balanced journalism is crucial to bringing international development to the public's attention."