By Ahmad Shafiu
The 2024/2025 administration of the Mass Communication Students Association (MACOSA), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, under the leadership of Comrade Adebiyi Abdullahi Olaiya, has become a shining example of what visionary student leadership looks like. Through a range of impactful projects, the MACOSA executives have redefined student engagement, improved learning conditions, and raised the profile of the department across campus.
In this article, we highlight the four major projects that marked this administration’s tenure, each one a testament to their commitment to excellence and student welfarism.
Renovation and Student Welfare: A Strong Foundation
One of the earliest and most impactful steps taken by the MACOSA executives was the renovation of the MACOSA office, a key administrative hub for the department. This upgrade improved both functionality and aesthetics, allowing for smoother operations and a more welcoming space for student engagement.
In addition to the office renovation, the administration also worked on restoring the departmental Wi-Fi, ensuring that students had better access to internet services needed for research, online classes, and media related tasks. These welfare driven interventions clearly show that the administration prioritized solving practical problems affecting students’ academic and professional growth.
Media Workshop & Advocacy Walk: Equipping the Future Communicators
Understanding the importance of hands on learning in media and communication, MACOSA organized a highly beneficial mobile photojournalism workshop for students. Participants were taught how to report visually and effectively using just their smartphones, a vital skill in today’s fast paced digital media landscape.
Further amplifying their impact, MACOSA partnered with the ABU Campus Press (ACP) to hold a media literacy awareness walk across the campus. This event aimed to combat misinformation, promote media literacy, and sensitize the university community on online safety. It was an intellectually engaging campaign that underscored MACOSA’s commitment to responsible journalism and critical thinking.
MACOSA Week: A Celebration of Identity and Excellence
Arguably the most talked about event of the semester, MACOSA Week was a four day celebration of creativity, culture, and community spirit. Each day had a unique theme:
1. Corporate Day: Students stepped out in their finest formal wear, reflecting professionalism.
2. Costume Day: A playful, imaginative day that showcased fun and innovation.
3. Old School Day: A nostalgic tribute to past generations, blending fashion with history.
4. Cultural Day: A vibrant and colourful exhibition of Nigeria’s rich ethnic heritage.
The week generated significant buzz across faculty lines, student groups, and social media platforms, eventually capturing the attention of the Ahmadu Bello University Students’ Representative Council (ABUSRC). The event's success even earned MACOSA students an invitation to participate in the ABUSRC’s upcoming cultural celebration. The colourful attire, enthusiastic turnout, and unique presentations left many asking, “Where did Mass Communication students get such amazing outfits?”
Garden Beautification Project: Leaving a Lasting Legacy
To wrap up their line of projects with a blend of environmental consciousness and aesthetics, the MACOSA executives embarked on a beautification drive by planting flowers around the MACOSA Garden. This green initiative was more than just cosmetic, it reflected the administration’s desire to create a relaxing and inspiring environment for students to interact, reflect, and recharge.
The project adds a refreshing touch to the department and stands as a physical reminder of the administration's lasting impact.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy Etched in Excellence
From infrastructure and student welfare to media capacity building, cultural celebration, and environmental beautification, the MACOSA 2024/2025 administration has set a new benchmark for student leadership within the department and beyond.
Their projects have not only improved the learning environment but also empowered students with knowledge, identity, and a renewed sense of community.
As the session winds down, the legacy of this administration will undoubtedly continue to inspire future MACOSA leaders to dream bigger, do more, and serve better.
Indeed the 2024/2025 academic year in our precious department is filled with amazing memories to look back to🔥
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