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TSU Announces 2024 Annual Communication Week

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10 months ago

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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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Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Legacy and the Case for Regionalized Federalism in Contemporary Nigeria

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5 months ago

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September 8, 2024

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“We have won the civil war. Yes, indeed. But to win the war for peace, we must recognise the real enemies. Otherwise, all our efforts would be totally misdirected and dissipated. As far as I can understand, the aggressors against peace and stability in Nigeria are abject poverty, hunger, disease, squalor and ignorance. They are more devastating in their ravages, more insidious, more thorough, and more resistant in their operations than armed rebellion. They are the enemies which must now be crushed, and crushed ruthlessly” – *Chief Obafemi Awolowo*

Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a revered leader in Nigeria’s history, exemplified principles of progressive governance, economic empowerment, and social justice during his time. Imagining him as the president of Nigeria today prompts reflection on how his visionary leadership would shape sustainable solutions for the country’s challenges. One prominent lesson from Awolowo’s legacy is his advocacy for regionalized federalism, a concept that decentralizes power to the regions to promote equitable development and effective governance. As Nigeria grapples with pressing issues of national unity, economic growth, and social cohesion, the resurgence of regionalized federalism emerges as a compelling argument for fostering inclusive governance and addressing diverse societal needs.
These words of Chief Obafemi Awolowo remain as relevant today as they were when they were first spoken. To truly achieve lasting peace and stability in Nigeria, we must address the root causes of conflict and focus on eradicating poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance. These are the real enemies that threaten the well-being of our people and undermine our efforts for progress.
By prioritizing efforts to alleviate poverty, improve access to education and healthcare, and create opportunities for economic growth, we can build a more just and equitable society where all Nigerians can thrive. It is only by tackling these underlying issues that we can truly achieve a lasting peace that benefits all members of our society.
Let us heed the wisdom of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and work together to crush these enemies of peace and stability. Only then can we build a brighter future for generations to come.
In today’s digital age, the words of Chief Obafemi Awolowo resonate even more strongly as we grapple with new challenges and opportunities in our quest for peace and stability in a democratic society. The enemies of peace and stability that he identified – poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance – have taken on new forms and complexities in our increasingly interconnected world.
In the digital age, poverty is not just about lack of material resources but also about lack of access to digital technology and opportunities for economic advancement. The digital divide exacerbates inequalities and limits the ability of marginalized groups to fully participate in democratic processes. Addressing digital inclusion and ensuring equal access to technology is crucial for promoting peace and stability in a democracy.
Hunger and disease also remain pressing issues in a digital age where misinformation and disinformation can spread rapidly, affecting public health and exacerbating food insecurity. A lack of access to reliable information and healthcare services can undermine efforts to promote health and well-being, hindering democratic progress and stability.
Squalor, in the context of today’s digital age, can refer to the proliferation of online hate speech, cyberbullying, and other forms of online harassment that contribute to a toxic online environment. Addressing these issues is essential for fostering a culture of respect, tolerance, and inclusivity in a democratic society.
Ignorance, in the digital age, is not just about lack of education but also about the spread of misinformation and disinformation online. Promoting digital literacy and critical thinking skills is essential for safeguarding the integrity of democratic processes and countering the influence of false information and propaganda.
The principles espoused by Chief Obafemi Awolowo remain as relevant today as they were in his time.
In conclusion, the principles espoused by Chief Obafemi Awolowo remain as relevant today as they were in his time. To win in a democracy in the digital age, we must continue to prioritize efforts to address the root causes of conflict and inequality, including poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance. By embracing the opportunities of the digital age while also addressing its challenges, we can build a more peaceful, stable, and inclusive society for all.
Furthering, in today’s digital age, the issue of poverty has taken on new dimensions as technology plays an increasingly central role in shaping economic opportunities and social mobility. The digital divide, which refers to the gap between those who have access to technology and those who do not, exacerbates existing inequalities and limits the ability of marginalized groups to fully participate in democratic processes. Without access to digital tools and resources, individuals and communities are at a significant disadvantage in terms of accessing information, education, and economic opportunities. Addressing digital inclusion is crucial for promoting social equity, economic empowerment, and ultimately, peace and stability in a democracy.
Hunger and disease continue to be pressing issues in the digital age, with new challenges emerging in the form of online misinformation and disinformation. The rapid spread of false information online can have serious consequences for public health as well as exacerbate food insecurity and malnutrition. In a world where online platforms play a central role in shaping public discourse and health outcomes, efforts to combat misinformation and promote access to accurate, evidence-based information are essential for safeguarding public well-being and promoting peace and stability in society.
Squalor in the digital age encompasses a range of online behaviours that contribute to a toxic and polarized online environment. From cyberbullying to the spread of hate speech and disinformation, the digital space can be a breeding ground for hostility and division. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort to promote digital civility, respect, and responsible online behaviour. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and empathy in the digital realm, we can work towards creating a more harmonious and peaceful society both online and offline.
Ignorance in the digital age poses a unique challenge as the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation online can undermine the integrity of democratic processes and erode public trust in institutions. Promoting digital literacy and critical thinking skills is essential for equipping individuals with the tools they need to navigate an increasingly complex information landscape. By empowering individuals to discern fact from fiction and make informed decisions online, we can mitigate the spread of false information and uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and truth in a democratic society.
Essentially, the principles articulated by Chief Obafemi Awolowo provide a timeless and invaluable framework for addressing the root causes of conflict and instability in the digital age. By acknowledging and confronting the challenges of poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance in today’s interconnected world, we can forge a path towards a more equitable, informed, and peaceful society. Embracing the transformative potential of technology while also acknowledging its pitfalls, we can harness the power of the digital age to foster a more inclusive and prosperous democracy for all.
Sustainingly, to develop sustainable solutions for addressing the complex challenges of poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance in the digital age, it is essential to adopt a holistic and multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes of these issues. The following thought processes can guide the development of effective and lasting solutions:
1. Collaborative and Inclusive Problem-solving: Recognizing that no single entity or sector can address these challenges alone, it is crucial to foster collaboration and partnerships among governments, non-governmental organizations, businesses, and communities. By engaging diverse stakeholders in the problem-solving process, we can leverage collective expertise, resources, and perspectives to develop comprehensive and inclusive solutions.
2. Data-driven Decision-making: In the digital age, data plays a critical role in informing policy decisions and monitoring progress towards sustainable development goals. By collecting and analyzing relevant data on poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance, we can better understand the underlying causes of these issues and identify targeted interventions that are most effective in addressing them.
3. Technology and Innovation: Harnessing the power of technology and innovation can provide new opportunities for addressing long-standing challenges. From mobile applications that deliver healthcare services in remote areas to online education platforms that expand access to learning opportunities, technology can facilitate more efficient and scalable solutions for combating poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance.
4. Capacity-building and Empowerment: Empowering individuals and communities to take ownership of their own development is key to ensuring sustainable and lasting impact. By investing in education, skills training, and entrepreneurship programs, we can equip people with the tools they need to improve their livelihoods, access healthcare services, and participate meaningfully in democratic processes.
5. Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular monitoring and evaluation of interventions are crucial for measuring progress, identifying challenges, and adapting strategies as needed. By establishing robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, we can ensure that resources are effectively allocated, outcomes are achieved, and lessons learned are incorporated into future programming.
6. Long-term Vision and Commitment: Achieving sustainable solutions for addressing poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance requires a long-term vision and commitment to positive change. By setting clear goals, timelines, and benchmarks for progress, we can maintain momentum, inspire collective action, and drive towards a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
By adopting a strategic and forward-thinking approach that integrates these thought processes into our development efforts, we can pave the way for sustainable solutions that address the root causes of conflict and instability in the digital age. Building on the wisdom of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and embracing the transformative potential of technology, we can work towards a more inclusive, resilient, and peaceful society for generations to come.
Nonetheless, if Chief Obafemi Awolowo were the president of Nigeria today, it is likely that he would prioritize policies and initiatives that promote national unity, economic development, and social welfare. As a visionary leader, he was known for his commitment to progressive governance, economic empowerment, and social justice.
One of the key lessons that can be drawn from Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s leadership style is his emphasis on regional development and decentralized governance. He championed the concept of regionalized federalism, which advocates for greater autonomy and decision-making power at the regional level. By devolving certain powers and resources to the regions, this approach aims to promote equitable development, local accountability, and effective service delivery.
In the current context of Nigeria, there is a growing argument for a return to regionalized federalism as a means to address the country’s diverse socio-economic challenges and foster greater political stability. By allowing the regions to have more control over their resources, governance structures, and development priorities, regionalized federalism can empower local communities, promote healthy competition among regions, and drive inclusive growth.
Furthermore, regionalized federalism can help to address longstanding issues of marginalization, inequality, and ethnic tensions by allowing each region to tailor its policies and programs to meet the specific needs of its population. This approach can foster a sense of ownership, accountability, and inclusivity among citizens, as they have a greater say in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.
In adopting regionalized federalism, Nigeria can draw inspiration from Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s legacy of visionary leadership, strategic planning, and commitment to social progress. By embracing this model of governance, the country can tap into the unique strengths and capabilities of its diverse regions, unlock their full potential, and build a more cohesive and prosperous nation for all.
In conclusion, Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s hypothetical presidency in contemporary Nigeria underscores the importance of embracing regionalized federalism as a viable path towards sustainable development and national unity. By drawing on Awolowo’s principles of progressive governance and decentralization, the country can chart a course towards empowering regions, fostering local accountability, and addressing deep-rooted challenges through tailored policies and programs. As Nigeria navigates complex socio-economic dynamics and calls for a return to regional autonomy amplify, the principles and lessons from Awolowo’s leadership provide valuable insights for shaping a more inclusive, responsive, and prosperous future for the nation. Embracing regionalized federalism stands as a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s journey towards holistic and sustainable solutions that benefit all citizens and regions alike.

♦ 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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Nigerian Appointed First Female Chancellor of the University of Birmingham

Published

6 months ago

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July 14, 2024

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Nigerian, Sandie Okoro OBE has been appointed by the University of  Birmingham as its new Chancellor. With her appointment, she becomes the first female to be appointed chancellor by the university since its establishment over 100 years ago.

Okoro, a lawyer and diversity expert is currently the Group General Counsel of Standard Chartered where she leads the Bank’s Legal, Group Corporate Secretariat, and Shared Investigative Services functions.

Okoro will succeed Lord Bilimoria of Chelse CBE who will step down after 10 years in the role on July 10.

Speaking on her appointment, she said:

I am truly honoured and delighted to be appointed Chancellor. It’s a fantastic opportunity for me to give a little something back to the amazing University that has given so very much to me and my family.

“The wonderful University of  Birmingham is the alma mater to three generations of the Okoros, my mum, me and my son. So my connection to it is very special indeed. I have followed the University’s outstanding progress very closely since my days there as a student on a full grant back in the 1980s – its dedication to impactful research, its focus on creating an inclusive environment for talented, minority students and educational excellence are themes very close to my heart.

Okoro, an alumna of the University of Birmingham is a graduate of Law and Politics qualifying as a barrister at the City, University of London. She has held roles as Head of Legal for Corporate Services at Schroders, Global General Counsel at Barings, and General Counsel for HSBC Global Asset Management. Okoro was also Senior Vice-President and General Counsel, and Vice-President for Compliance, for the World Bank Group.

She is a 2024 officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) and an Honorary Bencher of the Middle Temple.

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Black teen in Georgia awarded over $14m in scholarships, accepted at 231 colleges

Published

8 months ago

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May 15, 2024

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An 18-year-old low-income student has just defied the odds by achieving an extraordinary feat in her pursuit of higher education.

Madison Crowell, from Hinesville, Georgia secured her acceptance into an astounding 231 colleges and universities across the nation. She has also been awarded an impressive $14.7 million in scholarships to support her academic journey.

Crowell’s remarkable achievement is not only a testament to her academic prowess but also to her unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity.

Growing up in a low-income community, she explained she was driven by a desire to showcase the possibilities available to students like herself.

“I wanted to apply to as many schools as I did because I want to show the kids here in Liberty County that it’s possible to get accepted into schools […] that you think might be out of your reach but is definitely in reach,” she told Good Morning America.

Despite facing challenges along the way, Crowell remained steadfast in her pursuit of higher education. With the support of her parents, Sgt. 1st Class Delando Langley and Melissa Langley, she embarked on college tours and road trips from a young age, preparing herself for the journey ahead.

Now, as she prepares to embark on her college adventure, Crowell’s hard work and determination have paid off. She has chosen to attend High Point University in High Point, North Carolina, where she will pursue her academic aspirations under a full tuition scholarship.

In response to her incredible achievement, High Point University President Dr. Nido Qubein extended a warm welcome to Crowell, recognizing her potential to achieve greatness.

“We welcome you to our HPU family”, he said. “You’re going to do exceptional things right here at The Premier Life Skills University, where we call everybody to be extraordinary. The sky is not the limit […] and when you come here to High Point University, we know you’ll be a leader. We know you’ll make amazing things happen. We’re here to resource her, cheer you on and celebrate you victory.”

Despite her overwhelming number of acceptances, Cromwell revealed she hadn’t been accepted to other top schools and urged other students to persevere.

“I know what it’s like to be deferred from a dream school and you don’t know if you’re gonna get the chance to apply again or you’re not going to be accepted again,” she said. “I just want to make it known that nothing is impossible and that the sky is not the limit and that you want to keep pushing for greatness.”

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