By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
The Vice-Chancellor of Crawford University, Prof. Solomon Olanrewaju Makinde, has announced that the institution is set to establish its own television and radio stations as part of its renewed commitment to strengthening the Department of Mass Communication and aligning with global media standards.
Prof. Makinde made this disclosure during a courtesy visit by executives and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, at the university campus on Thursday, noting that the initiative is designed to give students hands-on experience and expose them to the realities of modern broadcasting.
“We have a mass communication programme with a clear purpose, and as I mentioned in my inauguration speech, it has become necessary to establish a proper television and radio station that will serve both academic and professional needs,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
“This development will ensure that our students remain competitive and abreast of contemporary trends in global media practice.”
He explained that the planned broadcast platforms will be equipped with modern facilities, serving as both a learning laboratory for students and a community channel to promote enlightenment, moral values, and social development.
In his address, the Chairman of the Ogun State Council of the NUJ, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju, congratulated Prof. Makinde on his recent appointment and described his emergence as a blessing to both the academic and media communities. He lauded Crawford University for its unwavering commitment to academic excellence and moral education.
“With great joy and a heart full of gratitude, we congratulate you on your appointment as Vice-Chancellor and celebrate the upcoming 20th Anniversary and 17th Convocation Ceremony of Crawford University,” Olanrewaju said.
“Your achievements so far are a testament to your visionary leadership and the university’s continuous growth.”
He emphasized the importance of partnership between the media and academia, proposing several areas of collaboration between NUJ Ogun Council and Crawford University, including training workshops, internship opportunities, joint research projects, and guest lectures.
“We believe that stronger ties between the media and academic institutions will foster transparency, knowledge sharing, and community engagement,” Olanrewaju added.
The visit, attended by members of the NUJ State Executive Council, also served as a platform to explore new opportunities for students of Mass Communication to engage with professional journalists through mentorship and industry exposure.