Authorities in the country have been urged to reassess the hurdles being faced by experienced journalists towards venturing into the academia to contribute their own quota in the quest for national development.

A professor in the Department of Mass Communication, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Eserinune McCarty Mojaye, stated this while presenting the university’s 29th Inaugural Lecture titled, “Constructing and Deconstructing Journalism Practice and Communication Research in Nigeria: A 40-Year Experience."

 The lecture, which took place on Thursday, November 7, 2024 at the university’s headquarters in Abuja, explored the contentious relationship between the media profession and academic institutions.

Mojaye advocated for a paradigm shift in how universities assess and welcome seasoned professionals into academic roles.

He recounted his transition from journalism to the academia, highlighting the rigid academic standards that undermine the value of professional experience, even though he had dedicated 15 years (1983–1998) to active journalism.

Official Presentation of the 29th Inaugural Lecture booklet by Prof. Mojaye (R) to representative of the VC,Prof. Butswat (DVC Admin.)

During the period, the don stated, he had authored hundreds of original articles and led editorial teams, yet he was still relegated to a lower academic rank when he transitioned to the academia in 1998.

 Mojaye highlighted the plight of other experienced journalists, such as current Nigerian officials like Dele Alake, Bayo Onanuga, and Tunji Bello who, if they wished to enter the academia, would face similar barriers.

The lecturer emphasised that these professionals, who could provide invaluable insights to aspiring journalists, would be deterred by restrictive academic protocols.

 He urged for a re-evaluation of current academic policies, advocating for more inclusive practices that embrace veteran professionals without academic fetters.

He suggested that a harmonious relationship between “the town and the gown” could address the challenge of brain drain and enhance academic vibrancy.

Group Photograph at the end of the event

The lecturer contended that journalism and the academia should not be "two worlds apart" but rather collaborative entities with a shared mission to enrich communication and media studies.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Olufemi Peters, reiterated the institution’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and forward-thinking educational environment.

Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Isaac Butswat, Peters highlighted the critical role such lectures play in advancing NOUN’s mission of disseminating knowledge and supporting ground-breaking research.

A Cross-Section of  participants

While thanking the participants and organisers, the VC emphasised the university’s ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between theory and practice across various disciplines, a mission that aligns closely with NOUN's commitment to flexible and inclusive education.

He commended the inaugural lecturer for his contributions to the academia and industry, noting the importance of blending practical experience with academic insight.