By Habeeb Ibrahim
The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has granted the Department of Mass Communication at Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) a five-year full accreditation to run advertising-related courses. This milestone underscores the department's commitment to excellence and industry relevance.
With this accreditation, valid until January 24, 2030, graduates of the department will no longer be required to write the ARCON professional examination before applying for membership in the council. They will be eligible for registration as Associate Registered Practitioners in Advertising (arpa), granting them direct entry into the profession as provided by Act No. 23 of 2022.
The accreditation exercise, conducted on January 23, 2025, was led by Professor Rotimi Olatunji, a professor of advertising, alongside Mrs. Agatha Okonkwo and Mr. Joe-Eugene Onuorah, FRPA, the Director of Registration at ARCON. The team assessed the department’s facilities, curriculum, and overall readiness to meet industry standards.
Reacting to the accreditation, Dr. Steven Anu’ Adesemoye, Head of the Department of Mass Communication, expressed delight over the achievement.
"This accreditation is a significant milestone for us, and we're thrilled to have met ARCON's rigorous standards. Our students will greatly benefit from this, as they'll have a competitive edge in the industry. Accreditation means automatic membership for our students, which sets them apart in the advertising world," he said.
Dr. Adesemoye also highlighted the department’s innovative approach, revealing that students already run portfolio agencies, providing social media marketing and consultancy services.
"This initiative allows students to gain practical experience, generate income, and establish themselves as future-ready professionals," he added.
The Vice-Chancellor of LASUSTECH, Professor Olumuyiwa Odusanya, expressed optimism about the accreditation's impact.
"The Mass Communication Department has been exceptional and remains a flagship programme of the university. We are confident that this accreditation will further enhance its reputation," he said.
The Dean of the College of Applied Social Sciences (CASS), Professor Olamuyiwa Olamade, also commended the department.
"The College extends heartfelt congratulations to the Department of Mass Communication and expresses its gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for meeting our accreditation requirements, leading to this significant achievement," he stated.
Students of the department have expressed excitement about the accreditation, recognizing the opportunities it presents.
Odelusi Abraham Fayokunnumi, a 100-level student, said:
"I think the accreditation will be beneficial because it will add to my qualifications as a mass communicator and advertiser. It may also aid advertising-related contracts, businesses, or jobs. Since I aim to study PRAD, I’ll likely have better practical experience to include in my CV."
ThankGod Wekpa, a 300-level student, emphasized the professional recognition attached to the accreditation.
"The department is now recognized by a professional body, ensuring quality and standard in our training. Belonging to ARCON opens up more networking opportunities. I can decide to register now or later, but one thing is certain—this accreditation grants us direct access to the industry."
Shakiru Oluwagbafunmi, a 200-level student, highlighted the long-term benefits.
"This accreditation will showcase the authenticity of my certificate and provide many opportunities. Even though I’m in the Journalism Sequence, advertising is everywhere, and I might develop an interest in it later. It’s a win-win situation."
With this accreditation, LASUSTECH’s Department of Mass Communication solidifies its position as a leading institution for media and communication education in Nigeria. The department is also open to collaborations with industry stakeholders to enhance its curriculum and provide students with real-world experience.
This accreditation marks a new era for the department, offering students a globally recognized qualification that opens doors to exciting career opportunities in advertising and marketing communication.
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