Miva Open University has partnered with O2 Academy to equip its Mass Communication students with professional certifications, practical skills and industry exposure.

The partnership, announced in Abuja, is aimed at bridging the gap between academic learning and workplace requirements, while strengthening students’ employability and professional development.

Under the collaboration, students will have access to professional certification programmes, workshops, masterclasses, guest lectures, mentorship and career coaching programmes, as well as conferences and industry networking events.

The university’s Programmes Coordinator, Department of Mass Communication and Media Studies, Dr Funmi Shodipe, said the partnership was designed to ensure that students combine strong academic foundations with the practical skills and professional exposure required to thrive in the changing economy.

She said, “At Miva, we recognise that preparing students for the future requires connecting what they learn in the classroom with the realities of the workplace.”

Shodipe added that the partnership would give Mass Communication students access to professional certifications, industry practitioners and practical learning opportunities to build their skills, confidence and industry awareness.

The Provost, O2 Academy, Ozoemena Mbanefo, said the academy was delighted to collaborate with Miva on an initiative that places practical and industry-relevant learning at the centre of students’ experience.

Mbanefo said combining academic learning with professional certifications, expert-led sessions and practical exposure would equip students with relevant skills and experiences for their professional development.

The institutions said the collaboration would also explore opportunities for internships, project-based learning and other forms of workplace exposure.

They noted that the partnership was particularly relevant as employers increasingly seek graduates who can combine academic knowledge with practical capabilities, digital fluency, adaptability, creativity and an understanding of contemporary industry practices.