By Theresa Moses
In a dynamic convergence of academia and practical wisdom, the esteemed Dr. Mustapha Muhammed Jamiu, Assistant Professor, Department of Mass Communication at RUDN University, Russian Federation and a Senior Research Fellow, The Institute of Geopolitical Communications, Faculty of Philology, Prof. Adisa Rasaq Muhammad, from the University of Ilorin, and Dr. Saudat Salah Abdulbaqi, the Chairperson of the Kwara State Chapter of the NIPR and an Associate Professor of Mass Communication at the University of Ilorin, took the centre stage at the recently concluded
RUDN Professional Scholarship Courses in Africa 2024.
Held at the prestigious Centre of Excellence in the Biodun Sobanjo Building, Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos, Lagos state, Nigeria, the two-day event showcased an unparalleled dedication to fostering excellence in the realm of Community Journalism.
Dr. Mustapha Muhammed Jamiu: Proprietor of Excellence in Community Journalism
Leading the pilgrimage of scholars was Dr. Mustapha Muhammed Jamiu. His lectures saw a departure from the modern classroom territorial jurisdiction as he gave participants resonating insights into core basics of Community Journalism. He emphasized moulding the local narratives and fostering the critical perspectives that has put the media literacy at a major pedestal in an ever-changing journalism landscape.
Among other things, one significant learning point from this course to take away was the extensive study by Dr. Jamiu about the world of digital. He walked the audience through opportunities and challenges that come with technology in an outstanding presentation, equipping the participants to navigate the ever-changing media with courage. The reverberations of his talk inspired a new crop of journalists who were set to plunge into the digital era.
Prof. Adisa Rasaq Muhammad: Building Minds in the Sphere of Data Journalism
Adding a unique flavour to the lecture, Prof. Adisa Rasaq Muhammad, from the University of Ilorin, took participants on a journey into the dynamic realm, jolly field of data journalism. By the time he finished his talk, his expertise illuminated the transformative role of data in storytelling, equipping attendees with skills to harness the power of information effectively.
Prof. Muhammad’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of community journalism was evident as he unravelled the nitty-gritty in the field of data-driven media landscape. The orchestration of knowledge symphony reverberates through the hallowed halls, leaving inspired journalists-to-be battle-ready for a data-filled tussle.
Dr. Saudat Salah Abdulbaqi: A Visionary Approach to Community Engagement
The third in the train of brilliant academias was Dr. Saudat Salah Abdulbaqi, Chairperson of Kwara State Chapter of NIPR and Associate Professor of Mass Communication at University of Ilorin. She anchored her lectures on the indispensable roles and responsibilities of journalists towards community engagement and empowerment, among other things.
Her comprehensive exploration of the ever-changing landscape of community journalism, especially in the digital era, left an indelible mark on participants. Dr. Abdulbaqi’s emphasis is on nurturing informed storytellers reflected in her engaging and informative sessions that transcended theoretical boundaries to focus on contemporary challenges and outlooks.
Conclusion: A New Sunrise for African Journalism
As the curtains fell on the RUDN Professional Scholarship Courses in Africa 2024, its impact echoed far beyond the lecture halls. Dr. Jamiu, Prof. Muhammad, and Dr. Abdulbaqi, through their collective wisdom, have sown the seeds for a new era of community-conscious journalists in Africa.
The scholarship course stood out as a testament to the enduring impact of quality education, shaping the future of journalism on the continent and beyond. The journey has just begun, and Africa eagerly anticipates the blossoming of a generation poised to redefine the landscape of community journalism.
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