The LASUSTECH Mass Communication Department hosted a retreat focusing on synergy, innovation, and the future of communication in academia

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Department of Mass Communication at Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) organised a one-day retreat themed “Synergy and Innovation in Mass Communication: Building a Brighter Future.”

The event provided a valuable platform for staff members to reflect on the department’s goals, challenges, and opportunities moving forward.

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The retreat encouraged open discussions on several critical areas of development, including research and development, educational innovations, community engagement, entrepreneurial initiatives, international collaborations, funding opportunities, and implementation strategies.

The session also explored the growing concern of “quiet quitting” and the need for a renewed spirit of excellence among staff.

Key Resolutions

The retreat yielded several significant resolutions aimed at enhancing the department’s academic and professional impact.

Research and Scholarly Activities:

The department resolved to prioritise research and scholarly activities. Staff will be encouraged to engage in innovative and impactful research that addresses both local and global challenges.

Research focus areas include affiliate marketing, virtual reality, data-driven communication, artificial intelligence in media, and media literacy workshops.

Collaboration and Multidisciplinary Approaches:

LASUSTECH Mass Communication aims to foster both local and international collaborations to promote diverse approaches to teaching and learning.

The department is particularly focused on creating synergies between the three main sequences: Broadcast and Film, Journalism and Public Relations, and Advertising.

Community Engagement and Advocacy:

Strengthening community engagement initiatives was a key takeaway from the retreat. The department is committed to enhancing partnerships with local communities, notably through initiatives like LASUSTECH 101.9FM and advocacy campaigns that aim to increase the department’s relevance within the university and the surrounding community.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship:

The department highlighted its commitment to embracing innovation across all aspects of communication. Specific emphasis will be placed on educational innovations, including industry mentorship, internships, and job placements, as well as entrepreneurial innovations such as hackathons, digital media start-ups, and media consulting services.

Internal Reconciliation and Team Building:

An important aspect of the retreat was fostering internal unity and resolving conflicts among staff. The department aims to cultivate a positive work environment, improve teamwork, and address any existing disputes.

Implementation Strategies

To ensure the successful implementation of the retreat’s resolutions, the following strategies have been adopted:

Research Committee Strengthening: A robust research committee will be established to coordinate and promote impactful research activities.
Community Engagement Strategy: A clear strategy will be developed to guide the department’s partnerships with local organisations and stakeholders.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship Opportunities: Opportunities for students and staff to engage in innovation and entrepreneurship programmes will be created.
Collaboration Culture: The department will foster a culture of collaboration among staff, students, and external organisations to promote multidisciplinary approaches.

Commitments and New Initiatives

Several commitments were made during the retreat, including the formation of an Industry Advisory Board (IAB), which will consist of notable media and communication professionals.

Additionally, the department announced the reinstatement of the Potpourri Programme and the introduction of a Community Roundtable designed to strengthen ties with LASUSTECH stakeholders and the Ikorodu community.

Furthermore, the department reaffirmed its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment, promising to continue proactive measures against such issues.

The Department of Mass Communication at LASUSTECH is determined to implement these resolutions and strategies in the upcoming academic year, ensuring a more dynamic, innovative, and community-focused approach to mass communication education.