-By Awau Adegoke
As part of the Association of Communication Scholars and Practitioners of Nigeria (ACSPN) Empowerment Series, Fountain University’s Mass Communication Department recently organized a training session on “Data Visualization for Storytelling: Turning Numbers into Narratives.” The event, held in collaboration with Dataphyte Nigeria, aimed to equip Mass Communication students with practical skills in data analysis and visualization.
Mr. Adam Bifola Raji, a representative of Dataphyte Nigeria, emphasized the crucial role of data in storytelling. “Data analysis is integral to storytelling, serving as a foundation for making informed decisions, driving organizational success, and identifying societal issues,” he said. Raji also highlighted the importance of data journalism in governance, outlining the steps involved in data reporting: collection, cleaning, analysis, visualization, and evaluation.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olayinka Ramota Karim, the Director of Academic Programs, Prof. Goke Lalude, commended the initiative as a milestone for the university. “This event provides a platform to celebrate a significant achievement—the launch of the ACSPN Southwest Branch—which underscores its dedication to improving lives,” she said.
The General Secretary of ACSPN, Dr. Solomon Oyelele, delivered a speech emphasizing the organization’s commitment to advancing communication practices and research. “ACSPN is dedicated to fostering excellence in academic research and professionalism to achieve national growth and development,” he noted.
The Dean of the College of Management and Social Sciences, Dr. Raheemat Adeniran, shared her positive experiences as a long-time member of ACSPN. “Joining this association has been impactful in my journey as a journalist. I have benefited greatly from its numerous empowerment programs and continue to maintain my membership,” she stated.
The training session reinforced the Mass Communication Department’s commitment to bridging the gap between theory and practice, equipping students with essential tools to thrive in the evolving media landscape.