UNILORIN don advocates education, media sector’s collaboration

A Professor at the Department of Science Education, University of Ilorin, Mulkah Adebisi Ahmed, has advocated a holistic collaboration between the nation’s education sector and the media so as to amplify the impact of both in fostering socio-economic development.

Prof. Ahmed made this call last Wednesday (February 28, 2024) while presenting a paper titled “Education as a vehicle for Socio-Economic Development: The Role of the Media” at the annual memorial lecture in honour of a former Deanof Student Affairs, University of Ilorin,  late Prof. Shehu Ahmed Jimoh. The event, which took place at the NUJ Press Centre, Ilorin, was organised by the Nigerian Media Parliament in collaboration with NUJ, SOBI FM Chapel, Dailylinks Digital Media and Rectitude Consult.

The renowned educationist explained that education is a pivotal factor in socioeconomic development as it is also the cornerstone for societal progress.

She added that education also plays a critical role in shaping individuals and societies and therefore, contributes to cultural and social reproduction across generations.

While establishing the nexus between education and the media, Prof. Ahmed said, “Promoting collaboration between the education sector and the media can amplify the impact of both in fostering socio-economic development.

Prof. Ahmed explained that it is important to incorporate media literacy into educational curricula and utilise media tools for educational purposes.

According to her, “tools such as radio, television, newspaper and magazine, internet, advertisements, have brought the world closer so well that students from different universities in different parts of the world are connected through a mere internet”, adding that “amidst the information revolution, mass media has become such a massive part of our lives”.

She said that despite the general functions of the Media in providing professional and vocational information, spreading awareness and civic responsibility, educational programmes, and playing the role of a non-formal agency, it is unfortunate that the media in Nigeria are not viewed to be complementing classroom teaching for the future.

Prof. Ahmed, who also lauded the late Prof. Jimoh’s legacy, said, “His dedication to academic excellence and his belief in the transformative power of education underscored the pivotal role that the media can play in shaping public discourse and driving positive change”.

She added, “Prof. Jimoh’s legacy serves as a testament to the profound impact that individuals can have when they dedicate themselves to the pursuit of knowledge, truth, and justice. As we honor his memory today, let us draw inspiration from his life and works, rededicate ourselves to the noble cause of advancing education, fostering community development, and promoting social justice”.

Prof. Ahmed also urged teachers, parents and everyone to search their conscience and go back to the drawing board and do the right thing.

In his remarks, a former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, who was the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali, OON, stressed the need for government to strengthen public schools in order to get more children back into school.

The former Vice Chancellor lauded the late Prof. Jimoh’s unwavering commitment as he explained that the late scholar would always be remembered for his pursuit of truth, and philanthropism as well as intellectual excellence.

Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, who was represented by the Provost, College of Health Sciences, Prof. Biodun Sulyman Alabi, acknowledged the role played by the departed scholar on the educational development of the State and the country at large and most especially at the University of Ilorin.

Prof. Egbewole urged all to emulate Prof. Jimoh’s legacies, advising his relatives, friends and loved ones to continue to sustain what he was known for.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of Sobi FM Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ), Mr Dare Akogun, who spoke on behalf of the organisers,  said, “We are gathered here to celebrate the remarkable life and legacy of one of Ilorin’s most distinguished sons, the late Prof. Shehu Ahmad Jimoh (OON).

The highlights of the event included the unveiling of a magazine on the life and times of Prof. Shehu Jimoh.

The event attracted dignitaries from far and near including the Director of Corporate Affairs, University of Ilorin, Mr Kunle Akogun; the Station Manager UNILORIN 89.3FM and Mr Idris Akintola Ibrahim (Alooma) as well as the widow of the honouree, Hajiya Hawawu Ayo Jimoh, and some of the children, among others.