We’ve split Mass Communication into 7 Degree programmes ─NUC

Alexander Davis

The National Universities Commission (NUC) says it has not abolished the study of Mass Communication in the Nigerian universities.

Agency report reveals the NUC has clarified to Nigerians and other stakeholders in the education sector that the course of study has just been unbundled into seven other Degree programmes.

Mr. Ibrahim Yakasai, Director of Corporate Affairs, NUC, disclosed this in Abuja, Friday, January 10, while clarifying the Commission’s position on some reports claiming that the NUC has phased out Mass Communication in the nation’s tertiary institutions of learning.

Mr. Yakasai, therefore, has urged universities wishing to run the new programmes to seek permission from the NUC before running them.

He also stated that universities across the country have authority of the Commission to begin the programmes as soon as they meet the essential requirements.

According to him, the NUC has only unbundled Mass Communication due to increasing demands from students.

“Any university that wants to begin the new programmes must first write officially to the Commission to carry out accreditation.

“Mass communication is still very much available as a Degree programme. What we just did was to unbundle the programme into seven other degree courses to provide more opportunities for students to study beyond Mass Communication.

He explained that the demands of those who go for Mass Communication are high, and NUC had to look into them.

“The universities now have to maintain their Mass Communication programme as a course, and as well begin other courses in Advertising, Broadcasting, Cinematography, Development Communication Studies, Information and Media Studies, Film and Multimedia Studies.

“It is, therefore, necessary for universities that are ready to begin the programmes to apply to NUC who will now check on the resources available to begin the programmes,” the Director of Corporate Affairs said.