Students highlight role of journalism in democracy at school press club day

Other participating schools included Bolade Senior High School, Ikeja Senior Grammar School, Mafoluku Senior Grammar School and Oshodi Comprehensive Senior High School.

In his welcome address, the principal, Mr. Ogunsanya Kayode Olawore, appreciated the teachers for organising the event and welcomed the invited schools, encouraging students to strive for excellence and make the most of the opportunity to learn.

Delivering the keynote lecture, Mr. Ademola Oyeledun, Programme Officer with The Nation Journalism Foundation, engaged students in an interactive session, describing journalism as a profession rooted in truth and responsibility.

He explained that journalism and democracy are closely linked, noting that in a democratic society, citizens must have access to information to hold leaders accountable.

According to him, journalism plays five key roles in society: informing the public, holding leaders accountable, giving voice to the voiceless, educating citizens, and protecting society from fake news.

He warned against the dangers of misinformation, stating that fake news can create fear, incite violence, damage reputations and divide communities. He advised students to always verify facts, check sources and think carefully before publishing any information.

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Addressing members of the press club, he encouraged them to be curious, ethical, courageous, creative and committed, adding that the future of journalism in Nigeria lay in their hands.

The event also featured a variety of engaging activities including newscasting by Oyegoke Aminat and Sunday Charity, speeches by invited schools on topical issues such as poverty and technology, as well as newspaper reviews.

Other highlights included an impromptu speech competition won by a representative of Mafoluku Senior High School, while Bolade Senior High School emerged winner in the quiz competition. Students also participated in poetry recitations, riddles, food and dancing competitions.

In an interview, the principal, Mr. Ogunsanya, said the aim of organising the Press Club Day was to prepare students for future opportunities and expose them to journalism as a potential career path.

He emphasised the importance of introducing students to career choices early, noting that such initiatives help to shape their interests and equip them with relevant skills for the future.