The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, has stressed the importance of education in national development and in preparing students for the world of work.
He made this statement while receiving a Former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Mr Femi Adesina and his wife, who paid a courtesy visit to the office of the Vice-Chancellor.
Mr Adesina was in UI as the first ever speaker at a Media-State Dialogue Series (POS 353 Special Engagement), organised by the Department of Political Science, Faculty of The Social Sciences.
The Vice-Chancellor stated that education remains one of the major factors that distinguish societies and prepare graduates to compete favourably in the global environment.
He noted that the programmes of such nature add value to the University and help in equipping students with practical knowledge and experience needed in the workplace.
Professor Adebowale applauded the dialogue series aimed at exposing students of the University of Ibadan to experienced practitioners in media practice describing the initiative as a valuable bridge between theory and practical experience.
He mentioned the Faculty of Technology where members of the Nigerian Society of Engineers are invited to teach and contribute to curriculum development for periods of up to six months saying that such partnerships help align academic training with industry realities and improve students’ readiness for the workplace.
Professor Adebowale disclosed that journalism holds a special place in his life and that he has great passion for the profession.
He commended Mr Femi Adesina for his acceptance of the request to contribute to the all round development of the students.
He therefore, urged the Department of Political Science to sustain the dialogue series, and to expand such initiatives and explore similar engagements in other academic courses.
Mr. Femi Adesina, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to late President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR
and also a former President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, shared from his experience of serving in government, particularly during his time as a presidential adviser.
He explained that governance in Nigeria is often challenged by misconceptions and misunderstandings between leaders and the people, noting that such situations create distractions for government.
He stressed the need for citizens and leaders to work together for national progress, and agreed that education remains the best way to bridge gaps in understanding and promoting constructive engagement in the society.
The Head of the Department of Political Science, Professor Dhikru Yagboyaju,
explained that the Dialogue forms part of a series of town-and-gown engagements designed to prepare students to interact with practitioners and gain practical perspectives on governance, communication, and national issues.
He stated that Mr Femi Adesina was invited to address students of POS 353 – Media and State as part of the department’s “town and gown” initiatives aimed at exposing students to experienced practitioners before they begin formal internship programmes, while also deepening their understanding of media responsibilities in nation-building.
The theme of the dialogue was: “From Newsroom to Aso Rock: Inside Media-State Relations in Nigeria.”
