BREAKING BARRIERS: ELIZABETH OSAYANDE LEADS EMPOWERING MEDIA PROJECT FOR FUTURE FEMALE FACT-CHECKERS

Elizabeth Osayande, an award-winning journalist, recently hosted a groundbreaking two-day workshop, Engagement4Exploration Media Project, at PRAD Studio, Lagos State University (LASU) in Ojo. With a mission to empower female journalists and Mass Communication students, the program brought together undergraduates, graduates, and media experts to bridge the gap in fact-checking skills and inspire a new generation of female leaders in journalism.

As participants gathered, the air buzzed with ambition and determination, each woman ready to challenge the male-dominated newsroom. This unique project provided hands-on training in fact-checking and digital verification, showcasing the value of truthful storytelling in today’s media landscape. Osayande emphasized her goal: to nurture a community of female journalists skilled in detecting misinformation, ready to make an impact.

Princess Adeola Shittu, Publisher Event Diary Lifestyle

The first day of the workshop saw Nkem Cynthia Agunwa, Africa Programme Manager at #WITNESS, leading a powerful session on digital verification tools. She emphasized the importance of truth in a world often clouded by misinformation. This was followed by John Aitokhuehi Eromosele, a data visualization expert, who brought practical skills to life, guiding participants through the intricacies of fact-checking.

Day two was equally impactful. Lekan Otufodunrin, a revered mentor, addressed the ethics of journalism, inspiring the attendees to embrace integrity. Dr. Hassan Suleiman of LASU shared insights into professional growth, encouraging participants to pursue their dreams with consistency and purpose. The session closed with Christiana T. Alabi-Akande, who urged the young journalists to break barriers and reach new heights.

Mrs. Elizabeth Osayande, Facilitator

Osayande’s vision wouldn’t have come to life without her dedicated team. Under the guidance of EWAN’s chairman, Mr. Mojeed Alabi, and with the support of Mrs. Christiana Alabi-Akande, Engr. Jeff Osayande, and Emmanuel Elizabeth, the team overcame challenges, delivering an unforgettable experience. Gratitude also poured in for Prof. Sunday Alawode, Dean of the Faculty of Media and Communication Studies, and Mr. Olusegun Giwa of PRAD Studio, whose support was invaluable.

Reflecting on the event, Osayande was moved by participant feedback, noting that they left the workshop empowered and ready to embark on a three-month mentorship in fact-checking. She sees a bright future for these young journalists, each carrying a torch for truth and justice.

As the project concluded, it marked a powerful beginning—a step forward for gender equality in journalism, and a promise of a new era where female voices will stand firm in media, armed with the skills and resilience to thrive.