The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has partnered with Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, to provide practical journalism training for students of the institution’s Mass Communication Department.
The initiative is designed to expose students to real newsroom activities and strengthen their professional skills beyond classroom learning.
Under the arrangement, 300-level and final-year Mass Communication students will participate in practical sessions that introduce them to newsroom operations, field reporting, and the realities of journalism practice.
The mentorship programme will involve members of the NUJ leadership from both Oyo and Ogun State Councils and is expected to commence in May.
Speaking on the partnership, the Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, Professor Ebunoluwa Oduwole, said the collaboration aligns with the institution’s commitment to producing graduates who are prepared for the modern labour market.
She explained that practical exposure is essential for students studying communication and media-related courses.
According to her, “The university deliberately designs its academic programmes to align with the realities of the modern labour market. This partnership will help bridge the gap between theoretical teaching and practical training for our Mass Communication students.”
Oduwole noted that the programme would help students understand the practical demands of journalism and prepare them for professional careers in the media industry.
Earlier, the Chairman of NUJ, Oyo State Council, Mr Akeem Abas, said the partnership was aimed at strengthening the competence and performance of graduates from the university.
Abas explained that the training would allow students to gain first-hand knowledge of newsroom practices and develop practical reporting skills.
He said, “This professional and academic partnership will enhance the competence of graduates from the institution and equip them with practical newsroom skills.”
Abas also commended the management of Ajayi Crowther University for maintaining a strong working relationship with the union over the years.
He noted that the institution has continued to grow in reputation since its establishment and has sustained productive engagement with professional organisations.
Officials present during the meeting included the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olumuyiwa Popoola, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Olufemi Atoyebi, and executive members of the NUJ Oyo State Council.
