The Polytechnic, Iresi, School of Information and Communication Technology, Department of Mass Communication, has successfully held its First Public Relations Colloquium with the theme “Practical Insights into Contemporary PR Practice.”
The event, which attracted professionals, scholars, and students, provided a platform for deep reflections on the evolving nature of Public Relations in Nigeria and its role in institutional development.
In his opening address, the Rector of the institution, Dr. Adewoyin Azeez Olakunle, FCIB, urged students to embrace the culture of lifelong learning. He emphasized that education is a continuous process and that students must cultivate the habit of acquiring knowledge at all levels in order to remain relevant in today’s dynamic society.
Dr. Adewoyin also reminded the audience of the school’s community-based foundation, noting that the Polytechnic was established through the collective efforts of the people for the benefit of humanity. He expressed profound appreciation to the host community for their unwavering support, which, according to him, has been instrumental to the school’s steady growth and development.
The organizer of the colloquium, Mr. Salaudeen Abdullahi, who doubles as the Head of Department of Mass Communication and the institution’s Public Relations Officer, explained that quality education must extend beyond classroom lectures.
He emphasized that the department’s initiatives, such as the colloquium, are designed to equip students with practical exposure that will prepare them to confront future challenges in their professional journey.
Delivering the keynote lecture, the Guest Speaker, Mr. Ademola Adesoji, MNIPR, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Osun State Chapter, inspired students with practical insights into contemporary PR practice. He charged them to embody the principles of professionalism and excellence in their conduct, stressing that:
“Don’t just study PR, allow people to see it in you. Network deliberately, document your practice, think impact. Public Relations is not what you study nor what you say, but what people see in you.”
The colloquium also featured a lively panel discussion on the sub-theme “Brand Management in Tertiary Institutions: The Role of Public Relations in Building and Sustaining Academic Image.” The panelists included Mr. Fadeji Adebayo, Director of Public Relations, Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, and Mr. Daranijo Habeeb Opeyemi, Chief Editor of Korrect News and Lecturer at Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.
During the session, Mr. Daranijo highlighted the growing need to distinguish between professional PR practitioners and mere content creators, stressing that effective PR is rooted in strategy, ethics, and impact-driven communication.
In addition, Mr. Fadeji Adebayo advised Nigerian tertiary institutions to adopt professional PR models in handling crisis situations. He underscored that effective crisis management and proactive communication strategies are indispensable in sustaining institutional reputation.
The event was rounded off with interactive sessions, networking opportunities, and words of encouragement, leaving students inspired to embrace practical knowledge and professional discipline as they prepare for life beyond the classroom.
Kudos to the organizer for a job well and professional done.
Kudos to the organizer for a job well and professionally done.
The polytechnic Iresi is a fast growing institution with innovation and development ideas,which showcase their students for better future.
Congratulations for the success of the program.