The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has announced the opening of applications for membership. Prospective applicants must meet specific requirements, including educational, professional, and vetting qualifications. According to a notice issued on October 1, 2026, applicants must pay a non-refundable application processing fee of NLe200 and complete the online SLAJ Membership Application Form.
The application fee can be paid through the SLAJ short code 715924# via Orange Money or Afrimoney, or through the SLAJ Membership Dues Account at any GTBank branch. All payments must be made in the applicant's name, exactly as it appears on the membership application form. Applicants who pay through the bank must submit a scanned copy of their bank pay-in or deposit slip as proof of payment.
For educational qualifications, applicants must have at least five GCE O' Level/WASSCE passes, including English Language. However, applicants with a recognised university or professional degree are not required to provide their GCE/WASSCE results on the application form. This requirement aims to ensure that applicants have a basic level of education.
The Association requires applicants to have practised journalism in Sierra Leone for a minimum period, depending on their academic qualifications. Professional Diploma and Degree holders need at least six months of journalism experience, while HTC/GCE/WASSCE holders must have at least three years of experience. Applicants without academic certificates must have at least 10 years of journalism experience.
SLAJ also requires applicants to have no criminal record and provide accurate and verifiable information throughout the application process. All educational certificates submitted must be obtained from recognised academic institutions approved by the relevant statutory authorities in Sierra Leone. This ensures that applicants are qualified and trustworthy.
Foreign nationals and non-journalists interested in associating with the Association may apply for Associate Membership, subject to the applicable SLAJ requirements. The Association clarified that submitting an application does not automatically guarantee membership. All applicants must appear before the SLAJ Membership Credentials Committee for final vetting and verification before membership can be approved.
The application process is expected to close on November 20, 2026. Prospective applicants can access the SLAJ membership application platform through the Association's official website. SLAJ has encouraged prospective applicants to carefully review the requirements and ensure that all information and supporting documents submitted are complete, accurate, and authentic.
Key points
- Applicants must meet specific educational and professional requirements, including a non-refundable application processing fee of NLe200.
- The Association requires applicants to have practised journalism in Sierra Leone for a minimum period, depending on their academic qualifications.
- Submitting an application does not automatically guarantee membership, and all applicants must appear before the SLAJ Membership Credentials Committee for final vetting and verification.
