The Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Ezekiel Olusola Ayoola, has charged members of the Union of Campus Journalists to avoid sensationalism and stories that may be detrimental to the image of the University.
He gave the charge today while receiving the members of the Executive Council of the Union of Campus Journalists (UCJ) on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, on a courtesy visit.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor noted that the UCJ had always been known to provide enlightenment and investigative reportage.
He, therefore, urged the present members to protect the labour of the founding fathers of the University and the integrity of the degrees they would be awarded.
Professor Ayoola stated that freedom of expression is most guaranteed in the University environment and that no one can debar the journalists from talking. He appealed to them to always deal with facts.
He, however, said they should aspire not to offend others but be constructive and aim to always advance the image and reputation of the University of Ibadan.
The President of the UCJ, Mr Oluwatobi Odeyinka, a 400-level student of Communication and Language Arts, said the visit was to introduce members of the UCJ Executive Council for the 2022/2023 Academic year to the University management.
He appreciated the management’s past support of the union, including providing resources and free use of facilities.
He said his Union aligns with the University’s vision of holistic training for all the students.
This, according to Mr Odeyinka, is why the Union maintains cordial relationships with the mass media to offer internships to members who are media enthusiasts and aspiring journalists.
He requested that the University management include the UCJ in the publicity activities planned for the university’s 75th anniversary.
The Union of Campus Journalists, established in 1987, has about 300 members drawn from among Faculty Press organisations, Press organisations of Halls of Residence and Departments, and Religious Press organisations.