Kano State College of Education & Preliminary Studies (KASCEPS) hosted a lecture series today to celebrate World Press Freedom Day, organized by the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD).
The event aimed to educate students on the significance of press freedom in a democracy.
KASCEPS Provost, Professor Sunusi Yakubu Ahmad, highlighted the crucial role journalists play.
“World Press Freedom Day serves as a powerful reminder of the essential role a free press plays in fostering democracy, education, and accountability,” Professor Ahmad said in his welcome remarks, delivered by Deputy Dean of Student Affairs, Malam Bashir Sa’ad.
He further emphasized, “We commend all journalists and media professionals for their dedication to truth and their unwavering commitment to bringing us the stories that matter.”
Represented by Buhari Abba, CITAD Executive Director Engr. Y.Z Ya’u stated, World Press Freedom Day is a day dedicated to recognizing the fundamental role of a free press in a healthy democracy.
He also stated that a free press serves as a vital pillar of democracy, holding power accountable, informing citizens, and fostering public discourse. Journalists play a critical role in uncovering truths, investigating wrongdoing, and giving voice to the voiceless.
However, Mr. Abba cautioned, “Press freedom faces increasing challenges around the world, including violence, intimidation, and censorship. And this year’s theme, ‘Journalism Under Digital Siege,’ underscores the threats journalists face online, such as cyberattacks, harassment, and the spread of misinformation.”
“We call upon all stakeholders, including the government, media organizations, and civil society, to protect journalists, promote media literacy, and combat misinformation,” Mr. Abba said.
Dr. Shehu Abubakar of KASCEPS kicked off the event with a talk titled “Innovations in journalism to combat disinformation and fake news.”
Dr. Shehu Abubakar
He emphasized the need for journalists to adapt, stating, “The digital landscape has fundamentally changed the way news is consumed, journalists need to be at the forefront of innovation, employing fact-checking tools and building trust with their audiences.”
Malam Abbas Yushau Yusuf, Editor of the Nigerian Tracker, followed with a presentation on “The significance of press freedom in fostering democracy and development.”
In his presentation, he highlighted the role of a free press in holding governments accountable. “A free press is the lifeblood of any democracy, it allows citizens to make informed decisions and holds those in power to account for their actions,” Mr. Yusuf said.
Nigerian Tracker Malam Abbas Yushau
The lecture series provided KASCEPS students with valuable insights into the importance of press freedom and the challenges journalists face today.
