The ASJUB Open Door Day at the University of Buea underscored the importance of learning new skills and carving out niches within the journalism field. This annual event serves as a platform for students from the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication to showcase their talents and apply classroom knowledge in practical settings.
“Journalists must take initiative to protect the anonymity of their sources to avoid retaliation,” emphasized an alumnus of the department, addressing the gathered students.
Held on Friday, June 14th, 2024, the event featured lecturers, student executives, and a broad array of students. Mr. Ngobina, a lecturer and worker at the university’s TV lab, highlighted the importance of acquiring practical skills during academic years. “At 21, you should be making your money. Make genuine money with the skills you’ve acquired over time while going to school. I shot the documentary on Mount Cameroon called ‘Volcanic Sprint’,” he said. He stressed the need for earning genuine money to effect positive change in the world.
This year’s ASJUB Open Day stood out compared to previous editions, as students humorously imitated their lecturers and engaged in various interactive activities. Itolo David, a final-year student in Journalism and Mass Communication, shared his insights: “I learned a lot, especially that it’s not always good to take certain kinds of pictures. ASJUB did a great job this year, and today has been quite amazing. It’s unfortunate this is my last year; I would have loved to attend more of these. We pray for continued improvement and better things for the Azure communities,” he told MMI.
The event concluded with the recognition of outstanding students. Besong Sarah, who received an award for her excellent work at the Public Relations office at the University of Buea, expressed her gratitude: “I’m really thankful to the school for giving me an opportunity to practice what I have been learning. You can always feel free to come by to practice and learn,” she told MMI. She acknowledged the challenge of balancing classes and volunteering but emphasized that it was all about managing time effectively.
The day wrapped up with a friendly match between the Cameroon Association of English Journalists and the students of the department, marking a celebratory end to the event.
