Thomas Adewumi University (TAU), in collaboration with RUDN University’s Center for Continuing Professional Education, successfully hosted the RUDN University Professional Scholarship Courses on February 17th and 18th, 2025. The two-day program featured in-depth sessions on Intercultural Communication in the Digital Age and Entrepreneurial Journalism, providing valuable insights into modern media practices.
Day 1: Intercultural Communication in the Digital Age
With expert sessions on the impact of media and intercultural communication, Dr. Muhammed Jamiu Mustapha, Associate Professor of Mass Communication & Researcher in Geopolitical Communications at RUDN University, and Dr. Natalia Poplavskaya, Deputy Dean for International Relations at RUDN University, explored key concepts and fundamentals of the subject in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The session also featured an interactive segment on personal branding, covering image, reputation, and authority in the digital era, and concluded with hands-on exercises and project presentations.
Day 2: Entrepreneurial Journalism
The second day focused on the fundamentals of Entrepreneurial Journalism, with Dr. Mustapha explaining that "journalism is a practice, while media serves as a platform and tool." He traced the evolution of journalism and its intersection with digital innovation, introduced critical strategies in Email Marketing, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and Content Marketing, and emphasized the importance of building a strong personal and professional brand in the media industry.
In a session on Media Ethics for Entrepreneurial Journalism Practices, Ms. Joke Kujenya, a veteran journalist and media trainer, addressed the ethical responsibilities of journalists in the digital space and the growing need for credibility in content creation. The program wrapped up with practical training and project presentations, allowing participants to apply their learning in real-world scenarios
The two-day event was well attended by students and faculty members, particularly from the Mass Communication Department.
In her closing remarks, the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Francisca Oladipo expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the facilitators and the entire RUDN University Management for delivering such an intensive program at no cost. She reaffirmed TAU’s dedication to fostering international academic collaborations.
This successful programme has undoubtedly enriched participants' understanding of media communication and journalism in the digital age, further positioning Thomas Adewumi University as a center of academic excellence and global engagement.