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The World Association for Academic Doctors issues 2023 Conference Communique

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The 6th Global Academic Doctors Congress was held on October 26 – 28, 2023, at Dillard University in the Center for Racial Justice in New Orleans, LA.

The World Association for Academic Doctors has concluded its 6th Global Conference, which started October 26 through 28, 2023, at Dillard University in the Center for Racial Justice in New Orleans, LA.

Founded by Dr. Henrietta Okoro, WAAD is a worldwide association of academic doctors driving excellent initiatives to reality for a better World through cooperation, collaboration, and communication of diverse intellectuals and professionals across the globe.

 

 

The conference themed ” Globalization of Social Justice: Perspective on Economic, environmental, Health and Technology,” attracted researchers, partners, and presenters from various countries. The below summaries were drawn from the two-day event:

DAY ONE

Day 1 started with a welcome address by Dr. Ashraf Esmail, the conference chair.

Opening remarks by Dr. Henrietta Okoro, President and Founder of the World for Association of Academic Doctors (WAAD). In attendance were participants from around the world representing several universities in the United States of America and Africa. The Vice Chancellor of Bayelsa Medical University, Professor Ebutimitula Etebu, was also featured at the event.

Keynote speaker Dr. Sherice Nelson discussed how the system is changing in the United States of America. She also stated that education is a public good, and because of the shifting change, we are in CRISIS!!!

Student poster presentations

  1. Khaliyah Pearson- Black Education: A Tool for Resistance.
  2. Malena Mitchell- African Americans: The Legacy of Slavery in the US
  3. Asia Collins-Debt Bondage: Slavery to Present Day
  4. Keymoni Coleman-The Resilience of African American Music: Slaves Songs to Hip Hop
  5. Jordan Winder- Soul Food: Food Policy and Law.
  6. Leah Moore-Webber- Slavery and the Real Truth
  7. Veijah Johnson- African American Spirituals: Songs of Resistance and Survival
  8. Jada Edward- Tales of the Bayou and many more. There were 26 presented.

 

 

In the afternoon, a panel was formed, and the presenter was Rev. Brisbon with a 5-member panel that presented on Unity in community and The Role of HBCUs and Spiritual Heritage in Promoting Racial Justice.

  • Presenter- Dr. Okoro presented Information Governance Best Practices—a perspective of Economics, Health, and Technology.
  • Presenter- Mr. Geeta Sandeep Nadella presented:  Validating the IS impact on Education in U.S. High Schools Using the IS-Impact Measurement Model—A Quantitative Study.
  • Presenter- Dr. Pope presented Business Intelligence and Call to Action:  Understanding Barriers to Application Means Studying Behavior.
  • International presenters, including Professor Chioma Nwakanma, presented: Coping with Climate Variability and Emerging Environmental Crisis in Coastal Areas of Southern Nigeria: A Study. Presenter- Dr. Ojel Clara Anidi, presented:  Linguistic Analysis and Graph Illustrations of Selected Igbo African Folktales as Education Resources in Nigeria.

Day 1 presentation was ended by Dr. Angela Esedebe, who presented The Importance of Understanding Current Global Migration Trends, and Dr. Ghosh Thinnakkakath, who introduced An Analysis of Strategic Leadership Skills in Implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI).

DAY TWO

Day 2 of the WAAD conference began with the Social Injustices Around the World Project. The project was conducted by over 300 students from Middle schools and High schools in New Orleans. Three WAAD members served as judges for this project. The three members were Dr. Henrietta Okoro, Dr. Angela Esedebe, and Dr. Njideka Kelley. Students had 15 minutes to educate the audience on the causes, consequences, and solutions to the injustices in their chosen country. It was interesting to see students end their presentations with a brief discussion of how social injustice worldwide was like what was taking place in their communities in New Orleans. The judges were impressed that students these young understood the importance of everyone working towards a more just and equitable society. Together, we must work to create a world where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive.

 

 

Presentations focused on the following countries: Brazil, Kenya, Thailand, India, South Sudan, Vietnam, South Africa, Russia, Argentina, Honduras, Haiti, Jamaica, Greenland, Iran, Afghanistan, Canada, Uruguay, China, and the United States. WAAD Judges presented awards to students who made the best projects on the social injustices in Honduras, South Africa, Argentina, and Thailand.

Following the middle and high school students’ presentations on their choice of country and social justice, a panel discussion was held with middle and high school students from Ben Franklin, Chalmette High, and St. Augustine students to discuss areas of concern for youth in relation to racial and social justice issues. This was moderated by Hangout Nola Ray Bender.

A tour of the Dillard University campus took place after the student presentations.

The conference continued with WAAD members giving oral presentations on their area of research and their research findings. Dr. Teibowei Marie Therese presented Medical Translation Processes and Meta-Analysis of Translational Methodologies via Zoom Meeting. The rest of the presentations were in person. Dr. Yaguo Eremasi Benjamin Ikele, as a co-author with Dr. Egbo Mansi, presented on the Occurrence of Cadmium in Boreholes Water in Yenagoa Metropolis of Bayelsa State and the Toxicological Risk Implication. Dr. Chinyere Ukomadu and Dr. Henrietta Okoro explained the Educational Module and Managing Patient Non-Compliance in the Health System. Dr. James Lester presented Decision Making and Leadership. Dr. Alexander Onukwugha demonstrated: Causes of Resistance to Learn and Change:  Remedies to Overcome Practice.

Another international presenter, Dr. Cecily Nwokocha, presented on the Viability and Sustainability of Renewable Energy in Nigeria by the End of the 21st Century. After the research presentation by WAAD members, the Communique team gave summaries of the two-day conference at Dillard University. WAAD’s Founder and CEO, Dr. Henrietta Okoro, gave a closing speech highlighting the closing ceremony activities after she awarded all presenters/attendees certificates of participation.

 

 

DAY 3

Day 3 started with a tour of the New Orleans French Quarter and museums, followed by the Closing Ceremony, new members Induction, and Dinner Cruise. The new members, gold and silver level members, were recognized, including the Founder/CEO, Dr. Henrietta Okoro, who received a visionary and exemplary leadership award.

WAAD uses academic research and professionalism to drive excellent initiatives, changing lives and bringing global peace and development. To harmonize this vision, the WAAD global conference coordinates the vast potential of professionals throughout the globe to promote excellence through quality education, advanced research, good leadership, and business ethics aimed at sustainable political, socio-economic, and scientific growth of the world.

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11 Communication Students Awarded Scholarships at TSU’s Commweek

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Each student received $1,000 through the SOC scholarship initiative.

Scholarships alleviate financial stress and contribute to academic success, diversity, and equitable access to education. They are a valuable resource for college students, opening doors that might otherwise remain closed due to financial barriers. The 2024 Commweek – the 42nd Intercultural and Communication Conference of the School of Communication (SOC) at Texas Southern University ended Friday, April 12 with a cheerful outcome. 11 communication students walked away with a fat check as beneficiaries of the SOC Commweek Scholarship initiative.

The recipients of the 2024 Commweek scholarships are Christopher Jarmon, Rachel Frank, Benjamin Clark, Racheal Lewis, Briannah Dilworth, Courtney Roberts, Precious Johnson, Douglas Gordon, Briana Williams, Zoria Goodley, and Erin Slaughter. Each student received $1,000 from the SOC scholarship initiative, aimed at helping students overcome financial obstacles while pursuing their academic goals. The funds can be used to cover tuition, textbooks, other educational expenses, and living costs like housing, transportation, and food.

Dr. Chris Ulasi, the Interim Dean of the School of Communication, explained that the scholarship funds were made possible through grants and donations from corporate and local businesses. These contributions were specifically designated for talented and economically disadvantaged students within the School of Communication. “Many of these students rely on financial aid to support their education. Therefore, we prioritized collaborating with private and corporate partners to support this initiative,” Dr. Ulasi stated.

Themed “Amplifying Diverse Voices in Media and Communication,” Commweek kicked off on April 8 and concluded with an Awards Gala on Friday, April 12, 2024, where scholarships were presented. Throughout the week, scholars, students, professionals, and civic leaders engaged in discussions on topics with cultural, political, economic, and social significance, as well as communication dynamics.

The School of Communication (SOC) at Texas Southern University is a dynamic academic institution that fosters interdisciplinary learning. With four departments and two graduate programs – Communication Studies, Entertainment Recording Industry Management (ERIM), Journalism, and Radio, Television, and Film (RTF), along with a Master of Arts (MA) in Communication and Master of Arts (M.A.) in Professional Communication and Digital Media (PCDM) – SOC has been a leader in training culturally responsive professionals and scholars for nearly five decades. Graduates are equipped to navigate diverse urban and international environments with inclusivity and a deep understanding of historical context.

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TSU Announces 2024 Annual Communication Week

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TEXAS INTERNATIONAL GUARDIAN, HOUSTON, TX – The representation of diverse racial and ethnic groups, as well as sexual and gender identities in the media, is critically important because it accurately shapes decency, fairness, and unity in the community. When media lacks or portrays insensitive representations, it can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and discrimination, further marginalizing these identities.

The School of Communication (SOC) at the Texas Southern University (TSU) has announced its 2024 Commweek, signifying the 42nd Intercultural and Communication Conference. Themed “Amplifying Diverse Voices in Media and Communication”, the conference will be held April 8 – 12, 2024, and will culminate with an Awards Gala on Friday, April 12, 2024, at the University’s Tiger Room.

Ensuring a diversity of voices in the media requires holistic monitoring systems and the wider application of target-based measures for both public and private media. Amplifying diverse perspectives can instigate a richer and more inclusive media landscape that benefits the entire populace. The Intercultural Communication Conference provides a forum for scholars, students, professionals, and civic-minded leaders to explore topics with cultural, political, economic, and social implications as well as communication dynamics. But the theme is necessary and also, it is coming at the right time.

The challenges posed by a lack of diverse voices in media and communication can be seen across social, political, economic, and cultural spheres of influence. These issues can influence the views represented in news coverage and dissemination. Indeed, the diversity of perspectives is key to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

According to Dr. Chris Ulasi, the Interim Dean of the School of Communication, “The 2024 event will be special because we are equally raising scholarship funds for gifted and economically disadvantaged students in the School of Communication.  Traditionally, a majority of our students rely on some form of financial assistance to fund their education. This is why I am using this opportunity to appeal to individuals, corporations, and community organizations to support this cause.”

According to a release made available to our newsroom, proceeds from this event will,

  • Help SOC students break down financial barriers while pursuing their academic prospects.
  • Help SOC students cover the cost of tuition, textbooks, and other educational expenses.
  • Help SOC students supplement the cost-of-living expenses such as housing, transportation, and food.
  • Create retention possibilities for students who might drop out for financial reasons.
  • Act as incentives and encouragement to students in general.
  • This financial sponsorship will be a catalyst for expanding SOC’s ongoing professional relationship with corporate businesses, community organizations, and individual sponsors.

Dr. Anthony Ogbo, co-chaired by Professor Ladonia Randle, and Ms. Michele Jones, is joined by a team of very engaging and supportive members who meet regularly to finalize the machinery for a successful event.  According to Dr. Ogbo, “The 2024 Commweek is expected to draw a line-up of dignitaries from the business, academic, and government sectors. For instance, the City of Houston’s Vice Mayor Pro-Tem, Council Member Martha Castex-Tatum will lead the conference opening ceremony on Monday, April 8. Also, Dr. Kathleen McElroy, renowned Journalist and Professor at the School of Journalism and Media at The University of Texas at Austin will lead the opening session of the intercultural conference on Thursday, April 10.”

The School of Communication (SOC) at Texas Southern University is a transformational, interdisciplinary academic school with four departments and two graduate programs: Communication Studies; Entertainment Recording Industry Management (ERIM); Journalism; Radio, Television, and Film (RTF); and Master of Arts (MA) in Communication and Master of Arts (M.A.) in Professional Communication and Digital Media (PCDM). For 48 years, the school has been at the forefront of training culturally responsive professionals and scholars who can navigate urban and international settings with a deep sense of inclusivity and an understanding of historical legacy.

Texas Southern University possesses an impressive array of more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs and concentrations, a diverse faculty, 80-plus student organizations, and an extensive alumni network comprised of educators, entrepreneurs, public servants, lawyers, pilots, artists, and more, many of whom are change agents on the local, national and international stage. Nestled upon a sprawling 150-acre campus, Texas Southern University is one of the nation’s largest historically black universities.

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The Call for Reform: Embracing Chief Awolowo’s Vision for a Better Nigeria

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As we celebrate the 115th Posthumous birthday of Chief Jeremiah Obafemi Oyeniyi Iyanda Awolowo, GCFR, it is essential to reflect on the valuable lessons that today’s politicians can learn from his exemplary leadership. Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a visionary and transformative leader, left a lasting legacy of progressive governance, innovative policies, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of Nigeria. Chief Awolowo’s emphasis on reform to drive progress, development, and prosperity for all Nigerians remains as relevant today as it was during his tenure. In honouring Chief Awolowo’s birthday, it is fitting to consider how his principles can guide policymakers in navigating the complexities of modern governance and leading Nigeria toward a brighter and more sustainable future.

Reflecting on the indelible mark he left on Nigeria through his visionary leadership, particularly his groundbreaking free education policy, Chief Awolowo’s legacy continues to resonate with many Nigerians, myself included. Personally, I owe much of who I am today to the opportunities afforded to me through this policy. In honour of Chief Awolowo’s birthday, it is fitting to explore and celebrate his attributes that today’s politicians can emulate for the betterment of our nation.

Chief Obafemi Awolowo was a visionary leader who played a key role in shaping modern Nigeria. His commitment to the principles of justice, equity, and progress made him a champion of the common man and a symbol of good governance. As we celebrate his 115th Posthumous birthday, it is important to reflect on his legacy and the values he stood for.

 

♦ Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and holds a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute.

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