The University of Lagos Mass Communication Alumni Association (UMCAA) has hosted its first mentoring session for new members to enhance their preparedness for the increasingly competitive labour market.
The session was facilitated by members of the association who have distinguished themselves in their chosen endeavours including veteran journalist Lekan Otufodurin, seasoned Public Relations professional, Eniola Mayowa, and data-centric digital marketing genius, Oluwatayo Alofun.
In his presentation, Understanding the media job terrain, Mr Otufodunrin, Executive Director, Media Career Development Network advised the fresh graduate to not limit themselves as a broadcaster, journalist, public relations or advertising practitioners, but rather as multimedia professionals in the media industry cuts across various areas of specialization which they were taught in school.
READ ALSO: ‘How to get major roles in international media organisations’
“The specialization in school is necessary for academic purposes, but in the world of work you must have the capacity to do a bit of everything to enhance your job search opportunities”, he said. Using real-life experiences, he advised the graduates to take internship opportunities, where they are available and showcase their skills.
Mrs Eniola Mayowa, Chief Operating Officer at Stepcraft Nigeria Limited underscored the place of knowledge, skills, learning and mentorship as the factors to success, as these apply to both employment and entrepreneurship. She admonished the graduates to be multi-skilled and be ready to add value as these will stand them out anywhere.
Speaking on Skills and Outlook for the new media age, Oluwatayo Alofun broke down the components of the digital space and outlined the various skills that are needed to thrive in that field. He stated that as mass communication graduates, they are at an advantage to do well in the digital space.
This according to him is because they have been equipped with knowledge of behaviour analysis, content and platform development, and campaign analysis. According to him: “Whatever your major – print (writing for the news media); broadcast journalism, public relations (reputation management) and advertising (promotions and branding) – you are in the business of content.”
The Programme Coordinator, Dr Kehinde Oyesomi, who is the Vice President of UMCAA in her opening remarks said that the programme was organised to increase the fresh graduates’ institutional knowledge and understanding of how the labour market works, increase their confidence and position them for professional development opportunities.
“This mentoring programme is an avenue for you as fresh graduates to receive guidance and support from respected members of UMCAA community, who are in the business of mentoring the next generation, ” she explained.
READ ALSO: ‘How I won four awards with one health story’
The President of UMCAA, Mr Adewale Williams in his remarks, congratulated the fresh graduates and encouraged them to consider entrepreneurship as the Association would plan another such mentoring session for those who are interested in having their own business.
Speaking on behalf of the 2021 set also referred to as the Vendicci, Adeyi Oluwademilade, in her vote of thanks, described the mentorship programme as insightful and enlightening. “The mentorship program was very insightful and enlightening; we say a big thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with us.
The participants who graduated in 2021, completed their National Youth Service Corps in February 2023, and are set for the labour market space.
