UNILAG Lecturer Dr. Olunifesi Suraj Inaugurates African Chapter of UNESCO MILID University Network
Dr. Olunifesi Suraj, a prominent scholar in Strategic Communication and Disinformation, has officially inaugurated the African Chapter of the UNESCO Media and Information Literacy and Intercultural Dialogue (MILID) University Network. The virtual event, held on December 9, 2024, drew participants from numerous African universities, UNESCO regional offices, and various UN agencies.
In his address titled “The Africa We Want,” Dr. Suraj emphasized the urgency for Africa to take control of its own future. “It is imperative for the African Chapter of the UNESCO MILID UNITWIN University Network to be established to consolidate media and information literacy initiatives across the continent, addressing the unique challenges of African development,” he stated.
Dr. Suraj underscored the importance of collaboration, noting, “By focusing on ‘Transforming Knowledge for Africa’s Future,’ this chapter will work with policymakers, academics, industry leaders, and international partners to strengthen interdisciplinary research and enhance global partnerships.”
Read Also:
Echoing UNESCO’s call for transformative action, Dr. Suraj pointed out, “The African Chapter is positioned to provide indigenous solutions for Africa’s unique challenges, fostering a sustainable future.” He expressed that the network aims to cultivate media and information literacy initiatives that cater to the continent’s needs and promote universal good.
During the inauguration, Dr. Suraj highlighted the need for an African Media Rights Agenda as part of the Right to Development. He reiterated that the chapter aims to promote media and information literacy to tackle various contemporary issues, including trust in media, misinformation, and the implications of digital innovations like Artificial Intelligence, all while aligning with the African Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The African Chapter, headquartered at the University of Lagos, Nigeria, will extend its reach through regional offices across the continent. Dr. Suraj, who serves as both the chapter’s head and Co-Lead of the global UNESCO University Network on Media and Information Literacy, is committed to enhancing Africa’s development initiatives by localizing global solutions through media literacy strategies.
The UNESCO MILID Network is part of the UNITWIN program, designed to integrate academia with civil society, local communities, and policymakers. Its mission encompasses research, education, and active participation, with the goal of improving policy-making on media literacy and intercultural dialogue at all levels.
As the network embarks on this mission, it aims to actualize the African Union’s Agenda 2063 vision for “An integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens,” establishing Africa as a dynamic force on the global stage.
By PRNigeria
