The South West Guild of Online Publishers (SWEGOP) on Thursday, October17, 2024, organised a practical training session on navigating the digital transformation in the media industry for online publishers in Ibadan, Oyo State.
This was to make the online publishers flow with the emerging technologies in the media world.
The training was organised in collaboration with the American Open University of Technology, Nigeria (ATECH) and held at ATECH Global Campus, Bodija, Ibadan.
At the training, the Campus Director, Dr David Akanbi, practically taught the online publishers how the digital transformation, driven by emerging technologies, are reshaping how news is produced, distributed and consumed.
The emerging technologies include Artificial Intelligence, Virtual and Augmented Reality, Block chain and 5G network.
Dr Akanbi emphasised how online publishers could explore emerging technologies to the advantage of their businesses and the society.
Also, Mr. John Abayomi of Virals.ng gave a presentation on leveraging Search Engine Optimization (SEO) for maximum visibility in an increasingly crowded online space.
Both facilitators emphasised the crucial role of technology in professional media practices while underscoring the importance of maintaining the integrity of digital platforms.
In his remarks, the Chairman of SWEGOP, Mr. Olayinka Agboola, highlighted the significance of the training, describing it as part of a series aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of its members in online journalism.
Agboola praised the management of ATECH for granting the free usage of their facilities as well as the support given to SWEGOP.
He particularly lauded Dr. Akanbi for his contributions.
A participant, Publisher of Newscoven, Mr. Dapo Falade, expressed appreciation for the training, stating: “When I arrived this morning, I thought I knew almost everything.
“However, from the beginning to the end of the session, I realised that I have a long way to go.
“This lecture has exposed me to many new concepts that will significantly benefit my business. The facilitators did an excellent job, and I am glad to have attended this training.”
Dr Akanbi, in a brief chat with journalists, said that the training was organised to share knowledge.
“If knowledge is not shared, it is wasted; and sharing knowledge is like planting a tree. When you know something and share with others, more people will know it and it, and by doing so, the society becomes a better place.
“So, our focus is to make the society a better place by impacting the society,” he said.
