As part of efforts to enhance their employability for the increasingly competitive labour market, University of Lagos Mass Communication Alumni Association (UMCAA) has organised its first mentoring session for new members.
The Programme Coordinator, Dr Kehinde Oyesomi, who is the Vice President of UMCAA in her opening remarks said that the programme was put together to increase the fresh graduates’ institutional knowledge and understanding of how the labour market works, increase their confidence and position them for professional development opportunities.
In her words, “This mentoring programme is an avenue for you as fresh graduates to receive guidance and support from respected members of UMCAA community, who are in the business of mentoring the next generation.”
The session was facilitated by members of the Association who have distinguished themselves in their chosen endeavours.
In his presentation, “Understanding the Media Job Terrain”, Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin, Executive Director, Media Career Development Network advised the fresh graduates not to limit themselves as broadcaster, journalist, public relations or advertising practitioners, but rather position themselves as a multimedia professional as the media industry cuts across various areas of specialisation which they were taught in school.
“The specialisations in school is necessary for academic purpose, but in the world of work, you must have the capacity to do a bit of everything to enhance your job search opportunities,” he said.
Using real life experiences, he advised the graduates to take internship opportunities, where they are available and showcase their skills.
Mrs. Eniola Mayowa, Chief Operating Officer, Stepcraft Nigeria Limited underscored the place of knowledge, skills, learning and mentorship as the factors to success, as these apply to both employment and entrepreneurship.
She admonished the graduates to be multi-skilled and be ready to add value as these will stand them out anywhere.
In another presentation on “Skills and Outlook for the New media age”, Oluwatayo Alofun broke down the components of the digital space and outlined the various skills that are needed to thrive in that field.
He stated that as mass communication graduates, they are at an advantage to do well in the digital space. This is because they have been equipped with knowledge on behavior analysis, content and platform development, and campaign analysis.
According to him: “Whatever your major – print (writing for the news media); broadcast journalism, public relations (reputations management) and advertising (promotions and branding) you are in the business of content.”
Meanwhile, UMCAA President, Mr Adewale Williams in his remarks, congratulated the fresh graduates and encouraged them to consider entrepreneurship as the Association would plan another such mentoring sessions for those who are interested in having their own business.
Giving a vote of thanks on behalf of the participants, a representative of the 2021 set, also referred to as the Vendici, Adeyi Oluwademilade, described the mentorship programme as insightful and enlightening.
“The mentorship program was very insightful and enlightening; we say a big thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with us.”
With the mentoring session, the participants, having graduated in 2021 and completed their National Youth Service Corps in February 2023, are now set for the labour market.
