Uni Media Convergence: MTU Mass Communication Department Connects Classroom to Industry
Mountain Top University (MTU), through the Department of Mass Communication, convened its maiden academic-industry workshop on 30 April 2026, setting a new benchmark for collaborative engagement between academia and the media profession. The pioneering event, themed “Uni Media Convergence”, was a defining moment in the department’s commitment to integrating industry exposure into academic learning. The workshop drew an impressive assembly of distinguished academics, seasoned media practitioners, and students in an event designed to foster intellectual exchange, professional dialogue, and strategic networking.
Among the high-profile individuals in attendance were the Vice-Chancellor of Mountain Top University, Professor Elijah Ayolabi; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gabriel Ajayi; the Dean of the College of Humanities, Management and Social Sciences, Professor Babatunde Oni; the Dean of the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Professor Andrew Ofudje; the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Professor Olanipekun Ojo; and the Head of the Department of Mass Communication, Dr Chinyere Mbaka. The event also featured notable industry figures, including the Chief Executive Officer of SCAPPCODE, Mr Ifeoluwa Babalola, alongside other respected professionals such as Mr Joshua Morakinyo, Mr Joel Nwokeoma, Mr MBA Christian, Dr Olajide Emmanuel, and Mrs Eniola Mayowa.
One of the major highlights of the convergence was a series of intellectually stimulating competitions, including a debate, quiz, and spelling bee, involving Mass Communication students from leading institutions such as Anchor University, Augustine University, Christopher University, Caleb University, and Mountain Top University. The contests were marked by exceptional brilliance and critical reasoning. The debate session, in particular, generated vibrant discourse as participants examined the implications of social media influencer culture on media professionalism in Nigeria.
Delivering her welcome address, the host of the event, Dr Chinyere Mbaka, expressed profound appreciation to the Chancellor of Mountain Top University, Dr D. K. Olukoya (Professor of Biotechnology), for his unwavering support and visionary leadership. She also acknowledged the steadfast commitment of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elijah Ayolabi, and the university management. Dr Mbaka extended her gratitude to the guest speakers for honouring the invitation despite their demanding professional schedules and commended the Mass Communication students for their exemplary coordination and dedication in bringing the event to fruition.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elijah Ayolabi, lauded the department for its innovative initiative, describing it as a forward-looking intervention that aligns with global best practice in higher education. He urged students to maximise the rare opportunity to engage directly with industry experts, emphasising that such exposure is critical to their professional development.
Reaffirming the institution’s philosophy, Professor Ayolabi noted that Mountain Top University remains deeply committed to nurturing critical thinking, fostering innovation, and promoting hands-on learning. He reiterated the university’s mission to provide a holistic educational experience that facilitates the spiritual, intellectual, and physical development of students, ultimately producing graduates who are morally grounded, academically sound, and globally competitive. He concluded by challenging students to pursue excellence relentlessly and to distinguish themselves as the best in their respective fields.
The keynote address, delivered by Mr Ifeoluwa Babalola, CEO of SCAPPCODE, provided a compelling perspective on the intersection of competence and character in professional success. He emphasised that while talent may create opportunities, it is integrity and character that sustain long-term relevance and credibility.
According to Mr Babalola, integrity is demonstrated through consistency, honesty in both small and significant matters, and the ability to uphold ethical standards even under pressure. He stressed that credibility remains a priceless asset in the media industry, often determining an individual’s value and influence without the need for excessive self-promotion.
He further advised students to deliberately build and protect their personal brands by honouring commitments, maintaining consistency, cultivating meaningful professional relationships, developing strong communication skills, and safeguarding their digital reputation. He also encouraged them to remain dependable and value-driven, noting that true success is anchored not only on skill but also on character and faith. In his words: “Skills may take you far, but a strong relationship with God will sustain you further.”
The event also featured an engaging panel session comprising experienced media professionals, who offered critical insights into emerging trends, ethical challenges, and career opportunities within the contemporary media ecosystem. The interactive session provided participants with practical knowledge and real-world perspectives essential for navigating the evolving industry landscape.
In retrospect, Uni Media Convergence stands as a groundbreaking initiative that successfully bridged the gap between classroom learning and professional practice. Beyond its immediate impact, the event ignited intellectual curiosity, inspired visionary thinking, and reinforced the importance of continuous learning and industry engagement among students and participants.