The Department of Strategic Communication and Media Studies at Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, on Wednesday November 26, 2025 hosted a one-day Academic Excellence Summit 1.0, themed “Is Education Truly a Scam?”
The event, held at the Late Admiral Muhammad Alabi Lawal Auditorium, brought together dignitaries, scholars, and communication professionals to discuss the importance of education in today’s society.
In his opening remarks, the Rector of the polytechnic, Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammed, praised the Mass Communication discipline, referring to it as “professional noise makers.”
Dr. Abdul encouraged the students to use their skills to promote productivity, peace, and unity.
The Director of IICT, Dr. Agboola Martins Oladiran for his part, emphasized that the summit is timely in challenging students intellectual and helps them appreciate the opportunities that education provides.
Also in his address, the Head of Department, Mr. Enoch Opaleke, applauds the Polytechnic management for its unwavering support. He revealed that the summit was inspired by students’ response to an academic challenge and coincides with the department’s First anniversary. He described the department’s growth as a journey that began like a mustard seed but has now blossomed with remarkable impact.
The keynote lecture delivered by Prof. Felix Olajide Talabi, Director of Research Innovation and Management at Redeemer’s University, refuted the idea that education is a scam.
Prof. Talabi stressed that education enriches both students and non-students by imparting knowledge, shaping character, building critical thinking, and instilling societal values.
”Education is not about money but about knowledge. Nothing compares to the value it brings,” he stated.
Highlight of the summit was a panel discussion moderated by the Head of Mass Communication Department, Alhaji Fatiu Olohungbebe.
Panelists including Dr. Okoji Chukdinma Taiwo and Alhaji Abdulrasak Yusuf, in their separate input stressed on the need for self-development alongside formal education, advising students to acquire technological skills, especially in artificial intelligence, and cultivate consistent study habits.
The summit concluded with a practical creative exhibition showcasing the department’s commitment to practical and hands-on learning.
In attendance were Polytechnic Management, Lecturers from Mass Communication, Strategic, and Journalism department. Students Leaders as well as communication executives graced the thought-provoking summit.
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