By Admin
The Federated Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ekiti State Council, has launched its maiden school sensitisation programme, aimed at introducing secondary school students to the principles, ethics and responsibilities of journalism.
The programme, held at CAC Comprehensive High School, Ado-Ekiti, was themed “From Classroom to Newsroom: Preparing the Next Generation of Journalists.”
It featured interactive sessions designed to expose the students to the role of the media in society, responsible information dissemination and the importance of accuracy in journalism.
As part of the programme, the students participated in a practical news-casting session, while members of the Federated Chapel delivered presentations on journalism, media ethics and the responsibilities attached to the profession.
Speaking on the initiative, the Chairman of the Planning Committee and member of the chapel, Comrade Sanya Atofarati, expressed optimism that the programme would inspire the students to develop an interest in journalism and understand the profession beyond its career prospects.
Atofarati noted that journalism remained a profession with significant responsibilities, particularly in keeping the public informed, holding society accountable and contributing to national development.
The school principal, Modupe Apata who commended the Federated Chapel for the initiative, said the programme had provided the students with a better understanding of the role of journalism and the responsibilities of the press in society.
She added that the school was open to further collaboration and engagements with the chapel to expose students to professional opportunities and practical knowledge.
Speaking on behalf of the students, the Senior Prefect, Tope Oluwaseun appreciated the NUJ Federated Chapel for organising the programme, saying the sensitisation had broadened the students’ understanding of journalism, its values and its importance to society.
Earlier, the Chairperson of the Federated Chapel, Comrade Banke Fajuyi, challenged the students to develop the habit of verifying information before sharing or publishing it.
Fajuyi cautioned against the practice of accepting information encountered online, particularly on WhatsApp and other social media platforms, as factual without proper verification.
She stressed the need for aspiring journalists and members of the public to establish the credibility of information, confirm its source and ensure its accuracy before circulating it, noting that unverified information could mislead the public and cause harm.
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.
The initiative is expected to provide an early bridge between classroom learning and professional journalism by equipping young people with basic knowledge of responsible journalism, ethical reporting, fact-checking and the importance of credible information in society.
