Campus News

Akogun encourages Agric Extension students to explore journalism opportunities

The Director of Corporate Affairs, University of Ilorin, Mr Kunle Akogun, has urged students of the Department of Agricultural Extension to take advantage of the vast opportunities available in Agricultural Journalism.

Speaking during an excursion by 500-level Agricultural Extension students to the Directorate last Wednesday (April 23, 2025), Mr  Akogun described the Department as one with large latitude of opportunities, emphasising the nation’s reliance on agricultural self-sustenance and the role of effective communication in achieving it.

The Director also advised students with interest in journalism to pursue additional qualifications bordering on professional certification, to facilitate their seamless integration and growth in the profession. “Passion is good, but knowledge and certification help you go farther in the field,” he said.

Akogun further revealed that the Directorate is currently in the process of repositioning UNILORIN FM with plans to foster stronger collaborations with various Departments and Faculties across the University. He added that the station is working towards a model where each Department will have its own dedicated programme on the radio. This will not only enhance communication within the University but also give students a platform to showcase their knowledge and engage the wider public in their fields of study.

Also speaking during the visit, the Station Manager of UNILORIN FM 89.3, Mr Idris Akintola  Ibrahim (Alooma), described the visiting students as among the lucky ones in the University who have a clear career path that intersects with multiple industries.

He highlighted the flexibility of the journalism profession, noting that many successful journalists were not formally trained in the field, but are currently making waves due to their interest and ability to tell compelling stories.

Mr Ibrahim, who, has won numerous awards for his work, emphasised the importance of relevance in education, adding that any certificate that doesn’t solve real-world problems is not worth it.

He encouraged students to see Agricultural journalism as a field full of potentials, pointing out that students from the Agricultural Extension Department could become Agric programme producers, presenters, or even online journalists.

The lecturer in-charge of Agricultural Journalism, Prof. Oluwasegun Adekunle, who led the students to the Directorate of Corporate Affairs, said that the excursion was aimed at giving the students practical insights into media practice.

Prof. Adekunle expressed satisfaction with the experience, stating that such practical engagements are vital for exposing students to the realities of the profession.

He reaffirmed the need for agricultural extension students to embrace the media as a powerful tool for rural development and agricultural transformation.

The students were later conducted round the UNILORIN FM studio, where they observed live broadcast sessions and interacted with media professionals.

Also in attendance were the Head of the Marketing Unit, Mrs Mary Kolawole and the Head of Programmes UNILORIN FM 89.3, Mr Temitope Adewuyi.