By Damilola Origbemisuyi

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Mass Communication lecturers and students have been charged to upgrade and learn digital skills to be relevant in the current digital era.

The advice was given by communication professionals at the 16th public lecture of the National Association of Mass Communication Students, NAMACOS, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, AAUA chapter yesterday.

They stressed that students must go beyond classroom teachings and theory to learn relevant digital skills shaping the industry.

Other recommendations include investment in digital education by government and institutions, upgrading curriculum and incorporation of professionals into classroom teaching.

The guest speaker and developmental journalist, Saheed Ibrahim expressed concern that many students have negative attitude towards learning, adding that those who fail to upgrade will ‘perish’.

“The world is now digital and not only students and lecturers must upgrade their skills, we professionals are also making efforts to improve on our skills.

“Artificial intelligence tools do not take people’s jobs: those who can use them effectively will take jobs of those who are laggards. To be a 21st century graduate, you must have 21st century skills: no shortcut to it,” he explained.

The Mandela Washington Fellow advised institutions to incorporate problem solving with digital skills during dissertation and project for students.

He charged the students to be abreast of the challenges posed by digital media and exploit them for more opportunities.

The Head of Mass Communication Department, AAUA, Dr Raphael Abimbola exphasised the importance of knowledge saying that “knowledge is power”.

“Prayers alone can not give you everything because the Bible says faith without work is dead. What you have and know is what will speak for you when you graduate,” he stated.

He revealed that by October this year the International Press Institute will come to grow 25 students to be selected on merit.

He said that such training with an international organization will serve as a leverage to the trained students after graduation and give them an edge in the global world.