The Federated Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ekiti State Council, has held the maiden edition of its school sensitisation programme at CAC Comprehensive High School, Ado Ekiti.
The programme, themed “From Classroom to Newsroom: Preparing the Next Generation of Journalists,” exposed the Art students of the school to the values, principles and responsibilities of journalism.
Speaking on the initiative, Chairman of the Planning Committee and member of the chapel, Comrade Sanya Atofarati, expressed optimism that the programme would inspire the students to appreciate journalism beyond it being a career, but as a profession with significant responsibility for informing the public and contributing to societal development.
In her remarks, the school principal, Mrs. Modupe Apata who commended the chapel for the initiative said the sensitization had given the students a better understanding of the role of the press, adding that the school remained open to further engagements with the chapel.
The Senior Prefect girl of the school, Tope Oluwaseun Favour, who spoke on behalf of the students, thanked the chapel for the programme, saying it had broadened their understanding of journalism and its core values.
Earlier, the chairperson of the chapel, comrade Banke Fajuyi taught the students that journalism goes beyond seeing a story online, particularly on WhatsApp and other social media platforms, and immediately sharing or reporting it, stressing the importance of verifying information, confirming that it comes from a credible source, and establishing its accuracy before it is circulated to the public.
The event saw students participate in news casting, while members of the chapel also made live presentations, making radio broadcasting closer and real to the Students.
Another major highlight of the event was the donation made to the school by the secretary of the chapel, comrade Caleb Obisesan on behalf of the Executives; including a Wall Clock, Literature books and branded pens for the students.
With these latest developments from the NUJ, it is believed that the initiative bridges the gap between classroom learning and professional journalism, while encouraging young people to develop an early understanding of responsible journalism, ethical reporting and the power of credible information in society.
