The concept of the Communication Festival held at the University of Lagos by the institution’s Mass Communication Alumni Association (UMCAA) from April 16-17th is unique and commendable.
Unlike most town and gown capacity development programmes usually initiated by media departments/Faculty and student associations when experienced professionals are invited to share their knowledge and experiences, the festival was the brainchild of UMCAA.
For three days, accomplished media professionals who are graduates of the departments shared insights on various contemporary topics, covering Broadcasting and the Changing Paradigm, Hollywood & Nollywood: Synchronising the business of filmmaking, New Media and National Orientation, Leveraging AI for Better Business Performance, Thinking business in a fast Changing Economy and Dilemma Between Journalism and Activism.
READ ALSO: LESSONS AND INSIGHTS FROM UNILAG’S COMMUNICATION FESTIVAL
Apart from the presentations and lectures, speed mentoring sessions were also facilitated on various specialisation of media careers for the students during which they learned of opportunities and skills required to excel in the profession.
The festival is commendable considering the time and resources committed to holding the programme to give the students the benefit of years of experience of the alumni and help them make proper career decisions.
It was very thoughtful of the association to have conceived the festival to enhance the quality of the knowledge and practical experience of the present students of the departments where they graduated from.
What UMCCA has done is go beyond the usual donation of materials and structures, which are also required, and offer intense learning opportunities and experience-sharing sessions that will complement what the students have learned.
We urge the students to maximise the insights and networking opportunities gained from the various presentation and take advantage of the access to the members of the Alumni association who are willing to continue to support them beyond the festival.
More than ever before, Communications Students and Lecturers need to engage more with industry experts to align their studies and teachings with new realities in the media practice.
We urge UMCAA to sustain the holding of the festival in the years ahead with the support of corporate organisations and incorportate other items that will make the programme more engaging for the students.
