Beyond its reputation as a premier journalism and mass communication institution, the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) is actively broadening its educational impact by incorporating vocational training into its curriculum.
This initiative equips students with practical skills in various trades, enhancing their self-reliance and career prospects.
Every Friday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., students across all departments gather for hands-on vocational sessions as part of their Entrepreneurship Education (EED) course. The initiative includes training in barbing, makeup artistry, catering, fashion design, graphic design, photography, and more, each aligned with students’ interests.
The programme is supervised by Mrs. Bisi Bamise, who has played a pivotal role in bringing on board experienced facilitators for each vocational area. “This is not just theory,” she explained. “Each session involves practical, real-world training. The goal is to prepare our students to stand confidently in the labor market, whether or not they find immediate employment in their core field.”
In the barbing department, students are introduced to modern grooming techniques using professional equipment. Under the guidance of their facilitator, Mr. Olubode Anu Williams, students learn not only how to cut hair but also about hygiene, customer service, and clipper maintenance.
Likewise, the catering students actively cook various dishes during each class, while the makeover department offers hands-on beauty training using professional tools and products. Fashion design, graphics, and photography students are also exposed to industry-relevant tools and creative practices.
To ensure commitment and progress tracking, students are required to purchase a logbook for ₦1,000. This serves as a record of participation, assignments, and practical tasks completed throughout the semester.
The vocational classes are scheduled to run throughout the second semester, reinforcing NIJ’s vision to develop well-rounded graduates who are not only academically sound but also empowered with employable and entrepreneurial skills.
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David Umoh Kelvin
