AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
Members of the Society of Web and Online Grassroots Publishers were taken through a training session focusing on emerging technologies in the media industry, with emphasis on digital transformation.
The event, led by Dr. David Akanbi, Campus Director, the American Open University of Technology, Ibadan, Nigeria covered practical applications of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Virtual and Augmented Reality, Blockchain, and 5G networks.
Dr. Akanbi highlighted how these advancements are reshaping the production, distribution, and consumption of news, urging online publishers to leverage these technologies to benefit both their businesses and society at large.
The Founder and Strategist, Virals.ng, Mr. John Abayomi, in his presentation on Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and its role in enhancing visibility in the competitive online space, stressed that success in online journalism is not determined by when one enters the field but by mastering and applying SEO techniques. He encouraged participants to take advantage of various SEO tools and apps to improve their digital presence.
They emphasized the roles of technology in modern journalism and the importance of maintaining the integrity of digital platforms.
SWEGOP Chairman, Mr. Olayinka Agboola, described the training as part of a broader initiative aimed at improving members’ skills in online journalism. He commended the management of ATECH for providing the necessary facilities and thanked Dr. Akanbi for his contributions to the session.
Mr. Dapo Falade, Publisher of Newscoven.com, expressed gratitude for the training, noting the depth of knowledge he gained. “When I arrived here this morning, I thought I knew almost everything. However, from the beginning to the end of the session, I realized I have a long way to go,” Falade said, adding that “The facilitators did an excellent job, and I am glad to have attended this training.”
Dr. Akanbi explained that the training was organized to share knowledge for the benefit of both the public and online media practitioners. He said, “If knowledge is not shared, it is wasted. Sharing knowledge is like planting a tree—it grows and benefits many. Our focus is on making society better by impacting it through knowledge sharing.”
