By Chiekezie Emmanuel

The Head of Mass Communication Department, ESUT, Barr. Dr. Chidiebere Ezinwa, has pledged to incorporate experiential learning into the department’s curricula which uphold Governor Peter Mbah’s new policy with emphasize in experiential learning in the state.

Dr. Ezinwa revealed this during the Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival (ENIFF) three-day Film Production training for the students of the department in Enugu

During an interview with the ESUT Monitor, the HOD noted that, “This event is an eye-opener, which incites what happens in the film industries. I am sure that those students who paid proper attention to the Programme will benefit greatly.”

He stated that what they film training is in line with what the Governor of Enugu State, Barr Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has instructed – “experiential learning, people learning things practically, not just reciting theories and concepts, but actually doing things with practical knowledge,” he emphasized.

The programme organizers are using films to bring about social change in different sectors. For example, the issue of gender-based violence has become rampant in society. However, the film training aims to enlighten students on how to use documentaries and films to change some situations in society.

“I am really happy we are doing something that aligns with the dream of His Excellency, which our VC, Prof Aloysius-Michaels Okolie has also inculcated in the staff.

“I have succeeded in using one stone to kill two birds; we are talking about unbundling the department. We have an interest in including Film and Multi-Media Studies as one of the departments. With this contact, we have gained now; we will try to see how we can collaborate with people already in the film industries.

The organizers promised to support the department in training the students who have interest in film-making.

One of the students, Edennaji Ezinne, from the Mass Communication Department, 200 level, expressed gratitude and happiness to the HOD for giving them the privilege to be in the programme.

She stated that the event is a “mind-blowing and impactful one because it is here to teach people who do not have the knowledge or who want to know more about storytelling and film production. I am happy and honored to be here,” she said.

While the ENIFF Film Production training ends today in Enugu with many students from the department attending from Thursday, it is important to emphasize that Dr Chidiebere Ezinwa ‘s leadership of the department has reinvigorated and repositioned it to be the pacesetter among others.

Dr Ezinwa has consistently exposed the students to practical aspects of journalism including visiting AfiaTV where a collaboration between the department and the company was reached; ensuring their participation in the second edition of the ENIFF training where the students are tutored on how to use their smartphones to creat and make movies and tell stories; reviving the ESUT Monitor Newspaper and also playing integral role in the restoration of ESUT Radio, 106.5FM, among others.

It could be recalled, that His Excellency, Barr Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah while delivering the first ESUT’s Distinguished Personality Lecture on Tuesday, 19th November, charged tertiary institutions in Enugu State to Implement Experiential Learning in their academic curricula as the bedrock for equipping the students with requisite knowledge to become productive before and after their gratulation.

The post Dr Ezinwa Implementing Experiential Learning As MASS Comm. Students Conclude Film Production Training appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Mass Communication department at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) is redefining the boundaries of journalism education in Nigeria. A visionary lecturer in the department, Mr. Asogwa Joel, the department has embarked on an innovative project that is equipping students with the practical skills needed to succeed in the field.

The project, which involves the production of a community newspaper, is unique. It is designed to give students a hands-on experience in the entire process of newspaper production, from conceptualization to publication. By doing so, the department aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing students for the demands of the real world.

The then 300 level students, who were divided into groups, were tasked with producing a newspaper each that showcases their understanding of journalistic principles and practices. They were required to conduct interviews, gather news stories, edit, and design their respective newspapers.

The came up with names such as The Locals Lens Newspaper, Community Chronicle, Obuoffia Community Newspaper, among others.

The project also encouraged students to explore rural areas, gathering stories and experiences that often go unreported in mainstream media.

As the students embarked on this journey, they encountered various challenges. Some struggled to find compelling story angles, while others faced difficulties in conducting interviews. However, with the guidance of their lecturer and the support of their peers, they persevered, producing outstanding results.

The outcome of the project was impressive, with some groups producing newspapers that rivaled those of professional publications. The students were not only proud of their achievement but also took ownership of their work, funding and distributing the papers themselves.

One student, who was part of the project by name Daniel Amarachi, expressed her excitement about the experience. “I never thought I could produce a newspaper from scratch, but this project showed me that I’m capable of more than I thought. It was challenging, but it was also incredibly rewarding.”

Another student by name Joseph Joy, who worked on the design aspect of the newspaper, added, “I learned so much about the importance of visual storytelling in journalism. It’s not just about writing a good story, but also about presenting it in a way that grabs the reader’s attention.”

This pioneering project has set a new standard for journalism education in ESUT, demonstrating the power of practical learning in preparing students for the demands of the profession. As the department continues to innovate and push boundaries, it is clear that the future of journalism in Nigeria is in good hands.

The project’s success has also caught the attention of many lecturers , who are impressed by the students’ work.

The post Revolutionizing Journalism Education: ESUT Mass Communication Students Set the Pace appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

Ikenga Media and Cultural Awareness Initiatives, IMCAI, organized a one-day mentoring workshop for mass communication students at Enugu State University of Science and Technology, ESUT.

The one-day workshop, themed “Building a Satisfying Career in Journalism,” took place on July 5, 2024, and featured sessions led by experienced journalists, Mrs. Chiamaka Okafor and Mr. Chinagorom Ugwu of Premium Times Newspaper

The workshop began with participants registering for the event, led by Ikengaonline’s Editor-in-Chief, Uche Ugboajah’s opening speech. The head of Department of Mass Communication delivered a welcome address and urged the students to make use of the workshop to increase their learning.

The Editor-in-Chief, Uche Ugboajah gave opening remarks, and a group photograph was taken, featuring all participants, including lecturers and Ikenga officials.

Mrs. Chiamaka Okafor, a journalist and Executive Director of Media and Information Literacy and Intercultural Dialogue Foundation, who led the first session on “Journalism at a Glance”, defined  journalism as a profession and social responsibility.

She dismissed the idea that ‘journalism doesn’t pay the bills,’ declaring that the profession offers diverse opportunities for supplementary income. She quipped, “The sky is wide enough for us to do other things for a source of income….” She emphasized that a good journalistic piece should possess certain qualities, which she elaborated on, providing insight into the characteristics of a good news story.

 The session became more interactive as students were grouped to write news articles, with Group Three emerging as the winner. She presented the group leader with a N2000 reward, acknowledging their efforts. Then, she took the time to provide constructive feedback, pointing out areas for improvement in their news articles. Through her guidance, she enlightened and encouraged the students, helping them grow in their journalistic skills.

Mr. Chinagorom Ugwu, a journalist with Premium Times, shared his journalism experience, highlighting ethical issues and encouraging students to establish a campus journalists’ union.

He began by introducing the concept of a campus journalists’ union, which he experienced first-hand at his alma mater, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Akwa, UNIZIK. He encouraged the department to establish a similar union, complementing their existing ESUT Monitor Newspaper.

Sharing his personal journey, he recounted how his passion for journalism began even before university, earning him recognition from lecturers and peers for staying on top of trending issues. He shared stories of his determination, from contacting Vanguard newspaper to landing a post-graduation internship, which left a lasting impression on professionals in the field emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations when writing news stories.

Students shared their takeaways from the workshop and Ikenga presented certificates and cash awards to participants.

Additionally, the Head of Department presented a copy of the ESUT Monitor to the Editor-in-Chief of Ikengaonline, Uche Ugboajah, as a token of appreciation for their collaboration and support in organizing the workshop.

 In an interview with ESUT Monitor, Mrs. Chiamaka Okafor revealed that the workshop was also held at UNIZIK as part of its focus on South Eastern universities. She expressed her desire to return and see the progress of the students. When asked about the perception of journalism as a low-paying profession, she emphasized that “quality journalism speaks for itself.” On coping with insecurity, she quoted her mentor, “No story is worth your life,” highlighting the importance of security training and analysis for journalists. She shared her passion for storytelling and her desire to continue writing news stories.

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