The digital media landscape is rapidly evolving, demanding new skills from aspiring journalists. Keeping pace with this shift, over 200 Mass Communication students from the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) recently honed their data journalism expertise through a dynamic two-day training program facilitated by Dataphyte Academy.

The intensive workshop, held on June 13-14, 2025, at LASUSTECH’s Mass Communication Department hall and ICT facility, specifically targeted 300-level students.

The program’s success was evident not only in the students’ enthusiastic participation but also in the glowing remarks from faculty. Dr. Steve Anu’ Adesemoye, the Head of the Mass Communication Department at LASUSTECH, was a prominent figure at the event, seen in images with the Dataphyte team. He lauded Dataphyte for their initiative, acknowledging the immense value it brings to enhancing students’ capabilities.

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Empowering the Next Generation of Storytellers

Dataphyte, a leading Nigerian media and data analytics organization, designed the training to empower participants with cutting-edge skills in data-driven storytelling, infographics, and visualization.

 

These are crucial components of modern journalism, allowing for a more impactful and evidence-based approach to reporting.
Students delved into essential data journalism frameworks, including trifecta and PESTLE analysis (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental). They also gained hands-on experience with digital tools for data visualization and analysis, aligning their skills with the industry’s growing demand for visually rich and data-informed reporting.

According to Kehinde Ogunyale, Dataphyte’s team leader, the core message of the workshop was clear: “Data journalism is about telling stories with numbers.” He emphasized the power of data in journalism, advocacy, and policymaking, highlighting its role in driving accountability and informed decision-making.

 

Kayode Bukola, the 300-level class representative, echoed the sentiment of her peers, describing the program as “transformative.” Her expression of gratitude on behalf of the students underscored the immediate and tangible impact of the training.

 

LASUSTECH’s Commitment to Future-Ready Graduates

This collaboration between LASUSTECH and Dataphyte positions the university’s Mass Communication students to excel in a competitive and rapidly evolving media environment. By equipping them with these specialized data skills, LASUSTECH is ensuring its graduates are not just reporters, but powerful communicators capable of producing impactful, data-informed stories that resonate in the digital age.

The program served as a vital bridge between academic learning and industry demands, setting a high standard for practical, skill-based education in Nigerian universities.