The South-West Guild of Online Publishers (SWEGOP), on Thursday, held a practical training session on emerging technology for its members in Ibadan.
The online publishers were trained on “Navigating The Digital Transformation In The Media Industry“.
The training, organised in collaboration with the American Open University of Technology, Nigeria (ATECH), was held at the institution’s Global Campus, Bodija, Ibadan.
The Campus Director, Dr David Akanbi, took the online publishers in practical training on the digital transformation, driven by emerging technologies.
He listed the emerging technologies to include Artificial Intelligence, Virtual and Augmented Reality, Block Chain amd 5G network.
Akanbi noted that these technologies are reshaping how news is produced, distributed and consumed.
He emphasised how online publishers can explore emerging technologies to the advantage of their businesses and the society in general.
In another session, Mr. John Abayomi, Founder/Chief Strategist, Virals.ng, delivered a presentation on leveraging Search Engine Optimization (SEO) for maximum visibility in an increasingly crowded online space.
The expert on SEO disclosed that when one entered into online journalism was not a determinant of how successful he or she can be, but being able to master and effectively apply SEO technology.
Abayomi urged online media practitioners, especially SWEGOP members, to leverage on the various Apps available within the SEO range to further enhance their jobs.
The two facilitators emphasised the crucial role of technology in professional media practices. They also underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity of digital platforms.
Mr. Olayinka Agboola, Chairman of SWEGOP, highlighted the significance of the training, describing it as part of a series aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of its members in online journalism.
He praised the management of ATECH for their facilities and support. He particularly lauded Dr Akanbi for his contributions.
A participant, Publisher of Newscoven.com, Mr. Dapo Falade, expressed appreciation for the training.
He declared: “When I arrived here this morning, I thought I knew almost everything. However, from the beginning to the end of the session, I realised I have a long way to go.
“This lecture has exposed me to many new concepts that will significantly benefit my business. The facilitators did an excellent job, and I am glad to have attended this training.”
Dr Akanbi, in a brief chat with journalists after the training, said it was organised to share knowledge, both in the interest of the public and online media practitioners.
“If knowledge is not shared, it is wasted. Sharing knowledge is like planting a tree and when you know something and share with others more people will know about it.
“And it is by doing so the society becomes a better place. So, our focus is to make the society a better place by impacting the society,” Akanbi said.
