By Felix Khanoba
Authorities in Nigeria have been called upon to reassess the barriers experienced journalists face when seeking to transition into academia, enabling them to contribute their expertise toward national development.
This call was made by Professor Eserinune McCarty Mojaye of the Department of Mass Communication, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), during the university’s 29th Inaugural Lecture.
The lecture, titled “Constructing and Deconstructing Journalism Practice and Communication Research in Nigeria: A 40-Year Experience,” was held on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the university’s headquarters in Abuja.
In a statement issued by NOUN’s Director of Media and Publicity, Ibrahim Sheme, it was noted that Mojaye emphasized the need for a shift in how universities evaluate and integrate seasoned professionals into academic roles.
Reflecting on his own journey from journalism to academia, Mojaye detailed the rigid academic criteria that often undervalue professional experience, despite his 15-year career in active journalism from 1983 to 1998.
He recounted having authored numerous original articles and led editorial teams, yet he was placed at a lower academic rank upon entering academia in 1998.
Mojaye pointed to other experienced journalists, including current officials such as Dele Alake, Bayo Onanuga, and Tunji Bello, who might encounter similar challenges should they wish to join academia. He argued that such individuals, who could offer significant guidance to future journalists, are often discouraged by restrictive academic requirements.
He urged a re-evaluation of these policies to foster more inclusive practices that recognize the contributions of veteran professionals without imposing unnecessary academic constraints. Mojaye suggested that a closer collaboration between “the town and the gown” could counter brain drain and strengthen the intellectual rigor of academic programs.
NOUN’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, also underscored the institution’s dedication to promoting a progressive and inclusive educational system. Represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Isaac Butswat, Peters emphasized the role of inaugural lectures in advancing NOUN’s mission of knowledge dissemination and supporting pioneering research.
Expressing gratitude to attendees and organizers, Peters highlighted NOUN’s efforts to bridge the gap between theory and practice across disciplines, aligning with the institution’s commitment to flexible and inclusive education. He commended Mojaye for his contributions to both academia and the journalism industry, underscoring the value of merging practical experience with scholarly insight.
