Lecturers at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, have called on graduates of the institution to give back to their alma mater and serve as mentors to younger students, saying such contributions are vital to strengthening academic development and preparing students for the evolving demands of the workplace.

The call was made during the 20th anniversary reunion of the 2006 set of the Department of Mass Communication.

The event featured lectures, interactive sessions, networking, testimonials and social activities, as members of the set reflected on their experiences in the 20 years since leaving the school.

Speaking at the reunion, the Head of the Department of Mass Communication, Dr Olusoji Olatunji, described the gathering as an important opportunity for former students to reconnect with their lecturers and with the institution, to contribute meaningfully to its growth.

Olatunji said the return of alumni two decades after graduation underscored the importance of maintaining a strong, ongoing relationship between graduates and their alma mater.

He commended the 2006 set for recently donating equipment to the Mass Communication Department, describing the gesture as a form of corporate social responsibility and a practical demonstration of gratitude to the institution that trained them.

According to him, the rapid transformation of the media industry driven by technology makes interaction between experienced professionals and current students increasingly necessary.

He explained that students need direct exposure to industry trends, work ethics and practical knowledge that go beyond what is taught in classrooms.

Olatunji urged alumni living within Nigeria and in the diaspora to leverage their experience, networks and resources to support the department.

He stressed that the government alone cannot provide everything required to develop tertiary institutions, and that sustainable progress would depend on stronger collaboration among the government, institutions, alumni and industry stakeholders.

He added that alumni could contribute through equipment donations, mentorship programmes, professional engagements, internships and other forms of support that would expose students to current industry practices and help bridge existing infrastructural and skills gaps.

Also speaking at the event, a retired lecturer in the department, Mr Olajide Adewumi, urged graduates and young professionals to remain focused, determined and consistent in their chosen careers.

Adewumi, who recounted his career journey from the television control room of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), to academia, said his experience showed the importance of perseverance and commitment.

He told the alumni and younger professionals that consistency was essential to building a sustainable career and to retaining the confidence of clients, employers and associates.

Another lecturer in the department, Mr Rotimi Bolarewa, stressed the need for successful alumni to carry other members along, particularly those who were yet to attain their desired career or financial positions.

Bolarewa urged graduates who had achieved success to support colleagues through mentorship, professional opportunities and networking.