By Samuel Sunday
Students of the Mass Communication Department at Federal Polytechnic Offa (FEDPOFFA) have been urged to embrace responsible and ethical use of the internet as digital tools continue to redefine modern journalism.
The call was made on Monday, February 16, 2026, during a Safer Internet Day workshop organized in collaboration with Saving African Youths Dream Initiative (SAYDI International) and hosted by the department.
The workshop, held at the institution’s campus in Offa, Kwara State, targeted students of journalism and mass communication, focusing on professionalism, online safety, and ethical media practice in the digital age.
Speaking at the event, the Head of the Mass Communication Department, Dr. Chukwudinma Taiwo Okoji, emphasized the need for journalism students to understand both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with internet use, given the rapid growth of digital media, social platforms, and artificial intelligence.
Facilitators delivered practical presentations on digital footprints, fact-checking, online safety, and the constructive application of artificial intelligence in journalism practice, stressing that careless online behavior can damage credibility and professional reputation.
Participants were guided on how to use digital tools to enhance news gathering and dissemination without compromising ethical standards or public trust.
Dr. Okoji expressed satisfaction with the level of participation from the students, noting that the discussions reflected real-life media challenges and the evolving nature of journalism practice in Nigeria.
He commended the contributions of lecturers in the department and the resource persons from SAYDI International for delivering timely and relevant insights to the students.
The workshop ended with a reaffirmation of the department’s commitment to equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and discipline required to function effectively and responsibly in today’s digital media environment.
