More than 100 students from 27 different European countries will descend on the East Midlands in the spring for an annual journalism forum.

The University of Lincoln is the first UK venue to host the Forum for European Journalism Students which is now in its 24th year.

Among the topics up for discussion are multi-platform media and the influence on journalism of emerging technologies and modes of communication.

The role of blogging, podcasting, video journalism and social networking sites – and their role in the future of the industry – will also be up for debate.

Representatives from the BBC, Press Association, Northcliffe Newspapers and BT will be among the names holding debates and workshops during the conference.

Guest speakers already confirmed include Hull Daily Mail editor John Meehan, Press Association journalism associate Trisha Andres, regional editor with RTE Radio 1 in Ireland Tom McGuire and co-editor of the BBC Online Blog Dave Lee.

The FEJS has existed since 1986 but its yearly meeting has never been to the UK before. The University of Lincoln was announced as host in November 2007.

Organiser and third-year journalism student Gina Davies said: “Since I got involved in the FEJS in 2007 I have visited some fantastic countries with the organisation – from Belgium to Croatia and even the Swiss Alps.

“The FEJS has been going since 1986 but until recently, the UK had never been involved before.

“Now young journalists from 27 different countries will be coming to Lincoln.

“It will make the city the capital for European journalism in the UK which should be great for tourism and the economy.”

The conference runs from 2 to 7 April – visit fejs.co.uk.