In a move to close the long criticised gap between classroom journalism and real newsroom practice, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has partnered with Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, to provide practical media training for students of the institution’s Mass Communication Department.
The initiative is designed to equip students with real-life newsroom experience and strengthen their professional competence before graduation.
Under the arrangement, 300 level and final year Mass Communication students of the faith-based university will be exposed to live newsroom operations, field reporting techniques and professional mentorship from practicing journalists.
The programme will allow the students to gain first hand knowledge of modern journalism practice in media organisations, thereby preparing them better for the demands of the profession.
The mentorship training, which will involve the leadership of NUJ in both Oyo and Ogun State Councils, is scheduled to commence in May.
Speaking on the development, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Ebunoluwa Oduwole, said the institution remains committed to producing graduates who are competitive in the labour market.
She noted that the partnership with NUJ would help bridge the gap between theoretical classroom teaching and practical media training for Mass Communication students.
According to her, the university deliberately structures its academic programmes to reflect the realities of the modern workplace.
Earlier, the Chairman of NUJ, Oyo State Council, Akeem Abass, while presenting the training proposal to the university management, said the collaboration would improve the competence and performance of graduates from the institution.
He explained that the programme would expose students to newsroom realities and equip them with essential reporting and editorial skills required in the journalism profession.
Abass also commended the management of Ajayi Crowther University for sustaining a cordial relationship with the union over the years, noting that the institution has recorded remarkable growth and reputation since its establishment over two decades ago.
Those present at the meeting included the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Olumuyiwa Popoola, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Olufemi Atoyebi, as well as executive members of the NUJ Oyo State Council.
, Oyo State Council, has partnered with Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, to provide practical media training for students of the institution’s Mass Communication Department.){kind=link}