Publisher and Chief Executive Officer of The Cable, an online media platform, Simon Kolawole, has identified gatekeeping, fairness, balance and ethics as the distinguishing factors between professional journalism and core activism.
According to him, “Any good journalist is an activist for truth. While journalism and activism are mechanisms for driving positive change in the society, they are different from each other.” He posits that investigation, interpretation and advocacy are functions of journalism, as well as activism, but journalism is a profession that is guided by rules.
He argued that tension between the two does not have to exist, rather, both journalism and activism should collaborate and champion the cause of the society. He further stated the intersection of journalism and activism, emphasizing the importance of objectivity and transparency in reporting.
He made this assertion during the maiden Communication Festival of the University of Lagos Alumni Association (UMCAA).
The event featured its 6th Distinguished Lecture Series (DLS), the second edition of its Entrepreneurship competition and Town meets Gown colloquium, was aimed at providing valuable mentorship and inspiration to current students of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos.
The event, which held at the University of Lagos, brought together esteemed guests, alumni, faculty, and students for three days of insightful presentations, engaging discussions, and meaningful connections. It also featured thought-provoking presentations from distinguished alumni and industry professionals, covering contemporary and topical issues in the industries.
In her opening remarks, the Chief host and Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, who was represented by Prof. Musa Obalola, the Dean of Student Affairs, expressed delight in the initiative as she underscored the role of education in the future of the media professions. She emphasized that journalism wields a significant influence and it holds a pivotal position in any society.
In his welcome address, the Head of department, a full-grown homeboy of Mass Communication department, having obtained his degrees from the department, Professor Adepoju Tejumaiye, congratulated the student and urged them to embrace the knowledge and experiences shared during the event, describing them as “invaluable resources for your personal and professional growth”.
The President of UMCAA, Adewale Williams, in his address, emphasized the potential of the Communication Festival to become a recurring event that enriches the academic and professional landscape of the university. He commended the Department of Mass Communication for supporting the initiative by the alumni association.
The Town meet Gown Colloquium provided a platform for engaging dialogue and collaboration between academia and industry. Broadcast professionals, Mr. Remi Ogunpitan, Mr. Tunde Odediran, and Mr. Ose Oyemadan captivated the audience with their expertise and insights in the world of broadcast and film production. The Director General of the National Orientation Agency, Mallam Issa Onilu explored the role of new media in shaping national orientation. And Ted Iwere, former Managing Director of … provided insights into navigating business in a rapidly evolving economy.
In addition to the presentations, the festival included speed mentoring sessions facilitated by esteemed alumni members. These sessions offered students personalized mentorship and networking opportunities, empowering them with guidance and insights to navigate their academic and professional journeys.
The event was attended by the Dean of Social Sciences, Prof Laja Odukoya, Prof. Ibrahim Ismail, distinguished alumni and media professionals, including Ted Iwere, Malagu Emmanuel, Lekan Otufodunrin, Regina Chris-Opodo, Yemi Arawore, Raphael Idu, among others.
Throughout the event, participants were inspired by the wealth of knowledge and experience shared by various alumni and industry leaders. The Communication Festival and Distinguished Lecture Series underscored the commitment of the alumni association to nurturing the next generation of communication professionals and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
For more information about UMCAA, please contact:
Adeyinka Adeosun
Public Relations Secretary, UMCAA
08056563002Top of Form
