A part of PAMRO's commitment to these industries includes 'paying it forward'. PAMRO offers media-studies related bursaries valued at $2 000 each to two recipients. The students who receive the bursaries also have the opportunity to attend the PAMRO All Media Research Conference and meet leaders in their chosen professions. This year's conference takes place in Flic en Flac, Mauritius.

The two Mauritian students who have received the bursaries are Ashwinee Rajkoomar (Middlesex University Mauritius) and Shameema Peeroo (Curtin Mauritius).

"It is an honour to have been recommended by my tutors, and the award gives me a sense of satisfaction," says Rajkoomar. "But most importantly, it represents a challenge to uphold excellence in my performance as an advertising, public relations and media student."

"It also proves that young people are not isolated, but we are part of a community of supportive organisations and people who can lead us to success," Rajkoomar adds.

Peeroo says, "I am honoured beyond words to have been selected as a recipient of this bursary. This bursary breathes confidence into me to soar and thrive. It also contains the gratifying element of alleviating my financial burdens. Words fall short to describe my immense appreciation and gratitude." 

"I admit that I was unaware of this organisation prior to obtaining the award. However, since then I have researched its aims and objectives. PAMRO is shaping the future of the advertising and media industries in Africa by facilitating research. For university students like me, this platform will be instrumental for future progress and learning," says Rajkoomar.

"I wish to learn more about the media industry and its operations in various countries across the African continent. Moreover, I hope to understand how African countries can meet [the] future challenges in the industry. Prospects for collaboration and research would also enable me to gather important knowledge about the industry that I can share with my fellow students," Rajkkomar adds.

"I call [my opportunity to attend the conference] serendipitous, and I look forward to the knowledge that will be shared and a cross-cultural exchange, which I fully intend to pack into my academic luggage," concludes Peeroo.
The PAMRO All Media Research Conference will take place from Sunday, 25 August to Wednesday, 28 August at the Hilton Mauritius Resort and Spa, Flic-en-Flac. 

For more information, or to register for the conference, visit www.pamro.org.