In a bid to revolutionize the narrative surrounding African stories, a group of esteemed Nigerian lecturers has announced the launch of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at promoting solutions journalism in the region.
Scheduled for Saturday, March 23rd, 2024, at 4:30 PM WAT, the inaugural event will witness the unveiling of the Solutions Journalism Educators Network (SJEN). This network, comprised of distinguished media, communication, and journalism educators, is dedicated to advocating for and implementing solutions-focused storytelling techniques throughout West Africa.
Leading the charge at the launch will be Professor Dele Odunlami, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Olabisi Onabanjo University in Ago Iwoye. Professor Odunlami is renowned for his expertise in media studies and his commitment to fostering innovative approaches within the field.
The establishment of SJEN marks a pivotal moment in the region’s media landscape, signaling a collective effort to shift the narrative towards constructive and impactful storytelling. By spotlighting solutions and positive developments, SJEN aims to rebuke prevailing stereotypes and inspire significant change across communities.
Through collaborative efforts and educational outreach, SJEN seeks to empower both students and practitioners to harness the power of solutions journalism in addressing pressing societal matters. By amplifying stories of resilience, innovation, and progress, SJEN endeavors to cultivate a more nuanced and optimistic portrayal of Africa’s diverse realities.
As the countdown to the launch event begins, anticipation is high among academics, journalists, and media enthusiasts alike as they eagerly await the dawn of a new era in African storytelling—one defined by optimism, empowerment, and meaningful impact.
Changemakers and the general public can register in advance for the Zoom event here.