By Abasi ItaÂ
The Faculty of Communication and Media Studies at the University of Calabar recently conducted an orientation program for newly admitted students of the 2025/2026 academic session.
Comprising seven departments—Advertising, Broadcasting, Development Communication, Journalism and Media Studies, Mass Communication, Public Relations, and Strategic Communication—the faculty welcomed the freshers with a comprehensive introduction to academic life and professional ethics.
Speaking at the Sen. Godswill Akpabio International Conference Centre, the pioneer Dean, Prof. Esekong Andrew-Essien, expressed gratitude to the faculty staff and students for their support in organizing the event. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate in leaving enduring legacies within the faculty.
“When I assumed office as Dean, my prayer was to leave lasting footprints in this faculty. Seeing our first orientation come together, I am grateful to God and to everyone who participated. I look forward to your continued support in achieving our goals that will stand the test of time,” Esekong stated.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Stanislaus Iyorza reminded the students to uphold ethical standards and maintain lifestyles they would be proud of in the future. “At the end of your studies, you should be worthy both in character and learning. Conduct yourselves ethically throughout your stay at the university,” he advised.
Guest speakers Engr. Dr. Samuel Oliver Effiom and Mr. Victor Awak Anam inspired the students by sharing personal experiences, emphasizing determination, focus, and resilience as key to achieving their goals.
Dr. Lawrence Ekwok, Head of the Department of Mass Communication, advised the new students to manage campus freedom responsibly, prioritize academics, and maintain professional decorum.
Dr. Ukam I. Ngwu, former Head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, encouraged JMS students to maximize the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills essential for shaping the media industry and combating misinformation.
Dr. Patrick Edem Okon, Head of Broadcasting, highlighted the unique role of broadcasters in entertaining, educating, and giving voice to the community, urging students to consider broadcasting as a meaningful career path.
Congratulating the pioneer students of the Department of Public Relations, Dr. Eric Ogri stressed the importance of hard work, self-discipline, and professional integrity, describing them as prospective image makers of society.
Dr. Mrs. Edem Eking, Head of Advertising, cautioned students against fraudulent acts, exam malpractice, violence, indecent dressing, drug use, and cultism, warning that such behaviors could lead to poor academic outcomes or expulsion.
In his address, Dr. Mensah Eyamba, Head of Strategic Communication and Examination Officer, emphasized the importance of embracing modern communication tools and techniques, including research, data analytics, drone photography, social media management, crisis communication, corporate messaging, and political campaign communication. He also reminded students to register courses on time in line with the university’s “no registration, no exam” policy and briefed them on examination conduct and procedures for handling results.
The orientation concluded with an appeal from faculty leadership for students to embrace ethics, excellence, and professionalism as they embark on their academic journey.