UMCAA President Vows to Empower Faculty of Comms and Media Students

By Daniel Nnamani and Iman Aiyeola

The president of the University of Lagos Mass Communication Alumni Association (UMCAA), Seyi Gambo, has pledged to support and prioritise students of the Faculty of Communications and Media Studies in his new administration. 

Speaking with UNILAG Sun, after his inauguration, Gambo said the student population is the centre of his focus, noting that their success requires the involvement of alumni and the need for stronger collaboration between the university and the wider society.

He said that he would ensure that students of the faculty are restored to prominent positions in the media space. 

“I am not happy that in the media space, our people are not the ones commanding the new media,” he said.

“We’re going to work on how to generate that interest.”

The UMCAA president noted that the association will continue to engage alumni to give back and support students in the faculty.

Speaking on plans to contribute to the expansion of infrastructure, Gambo said it would be easier once potential investors are confident that their contributions are well maximised. 

“The people who have money usually don’t waste their money,” he said.

“The people who have money actually want to give back when they know that the resources will be maximised.”

He noted that he will refocus the association to better understand the needs of the faculty through engagement with students, alumni, staff, and other stakeholders.

This, he said, will serve as a guide to future initiatives.

Gambo revealed plans to establish an annual fund of one million naira to support students’ innovative ideas through a competition, adding that the fund is to empower students who have great ideas but lack funding.

He added that the empowerment fund is to ensure students are proactive and innovative, encouraging students to use their innovation to address challenges facing the country.

“You have enough information,” he said.

“It’s not about waiting for your lecturer or waiting for us. 

“People who have ideas should come together and start discussing how they will scale the ideas.”

He reiterated that the alumni will keep on supporting students in showcasing their work and talent as long as they put in the effort.