The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has entered into a partnership with Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, to provide practical media training for students in the institution’s Mass Communication Department.

The collaboration, according to the stakeholders, is aimed at strengthening the professional capacity of students and exposing them to hands-on journalism practice beyond classroom learning.

Under the arrangement, 300-level and final-year students of the faith-based university will undergo practical training designed to acquaint them with real-time newsroom operations and field reporting.

The initiative is expected to equip the participants with first-hand knowledge of modern journalism practices and enhance their professional readiness before graduation.

The mentorship programme, which will involve the leadership of the NUJ in Oyo and Ogun State councils, is scheduled to commence in May.

Speaking on the development, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Ebunoluwa Oduwole, said the institution remains committed to producing graduates who are competitive in the labour market.

Oduwole noted that the partnership would help bridge the gap between theoretical instruction and practical training for Mass Communication students.

She explained that the university deliberately designs its academic programmes to align with the realities and demands of the modern workplace.

Earlier, the Chairman of the NUJ in Oyo State, Akeem Abas, while presenting the training proposal to the Vice-Chancellor, said the collaboration between the union and the university would enhance the competence and performance of graduates from the institution.

According to him, the initiative will provide students with practical newsroom skills and deepen their understanding of the realities of journalism practice.

Abas also commended the management of Ajayi Crowther University for sustaining a cordial relationship with the union over the years.

He lauded the institution’s achievements since its establishment, noting that the university has continued to grow in reputation within its 21 years of existence.

Among those present at the meeting were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Olumuyiwa Popoola; the university’s Public Relations Officer, Olufemi Atoyebi; as well as executive members of the NUJ Oyo State Council.