DEVELOPING SOCIO-LINGUISTIC COMPETENCE FOR JOURNALISM STUDENTS

This article explores the critical importance of sociolinguistic competence in the education of journalism students. As the media landscape becomes increasingly diverse and interconnected, journalists must navigate complex linguistic and cultural contexts to communicate effectively with varied audiences. The study examines existing curricula and identifies gaps in sociolinguistic training, proposing a comprehensive framework that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Through case studies and interviews with industry professionals, we highlight successful pedagogical strategies that enhance students’ understanding of language variation, discourse practices, and audience engagement. The findings underscore the necessity of fostering sociolinguistic awareness to empower future journalists to produce inclusive and impactful narratives in a globalized world.