As campaigning for the Central Honiara and North East Guadalcanal constituencies shifts into high gear the media is also prepping itself for extended coverage on polling day.

The media association of Solomon Islands (MASI) partnered with the Strengthening the Electoral Cycle in the Solomon Islands Project (SECSIP) to conduct trainings for local journalists. More than 30 local journalists from various news outlets and social media groups were invited for the training.

25-year-old Cynthia Seda Mewa is one of the participants, she currently works for the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Cooperation (SIBC) and she shares her experience and thoughts of the training.

“I learn a lot from this training, the important thing is to remain neutral while reporting during this upcoming by-election.

“And also, as a female reporter, it is important to be sensitive when reporting on gender issues as we know there are few female candidates.

“So, while we try to promote women in leadership we must also try and remain neutral and abide by media code of ethics,” Cynthia said.

"I would like to encourage young girls to be part of the journalism field, and for those who are already pursuing a career in journalism to do their best in highlighting issues that are important to women.”

SECSIP is funded by the Australian Government, The European Union, UNDP, and the Solomon Islands Electoral Office.