Miva Open University has entered into a partnership with 02 Academy to enhance students’ professional development through industry certifications, practical training and workplace exposure.

The collaboration is expected to be particularly valuable to students in the Department of Mass Communication and Media Studies, who will have access to professional certification programmes, workshops, masterclasses, guest lectures, mentorship and career coaching.

Beyond classroom instruction, the partnership will expose students to conferences, industry networking events and other hands-on learning opportunities. These activities are intended to familiarise them with current industry practices while complementing their academic studies.

Dr Funmi Shodipe, Programmes Coordinator, Department of Mass Communication and Media Studies, Miva Open University, said the agreement demonstrates the institution’s commitment to developing graduates with both sound academic knowledge and practical professional capabilities.

According to Shodipe, preparing students for future careers involves linking what they learn in the classroom with the realities they will encounter in the workplace. She added that the collaboration would support students in building relevant skills, confidence and awareness of industry expectations as they pursue their careers.

She further noted that professional certifications and opportunities to interact directly with industry practitioners would provide students with exposure that extends beyond their formal academic curriculum.

Provost of 02 Academy, Ozoemena Mbanefo, also welcomed the partnership, saying the academy was pleased to work with Miva Open University to strengthen the role of practical and industry-focused learning in students’ education.

Mbanefo said integrating academic education with professional certifications, expert-led sessions and practical exposure would equip students with useful skills and experience for their professional growth.

The partnership comes against the backdrop of growing employer demand for graduates who possess more than academic qualifications. Employers are increasingly looking for candidates with practical capabilities, digital skills, adaptability, creativity and knowledge of modern workplace expectations.

Miva Open University and 02 Academy said the partnership would consequently improve students’ employability while giving them avenues to develop professional relationships and acquire industry knowledge before entering the workforce.

Source: msme africa online