LASU lives up to its slogan, “We are great”, Dr. Hassan

Acting Head, Department of Journalism and Media Studies, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Lagos State University (LASU), Dr. Suleman Hassan, speaks with Folami Olamide in an exclusive interview.

Beyond academia, he has contributed significantly to ICT development in LASU and is actively involved in journalism and public relations practice.

Why does Lagos State University continue to record one of the highest numbers of admission applicants in Nigeria every year?

Lagos State University has set a standard that many universities now strive to emulate. One major reason is the quality of leadership under the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, whose administration has recorded remarkable achievements in capacity building for lecturers, infrastructural development, uninterrupted academic calendars and the provision of a conducive learning environment. These factors have strengthened public confidence in the university.

In addition, LASU has consistently maintained a good reputation for academic excellence. The university has produced graduates who are excelling in journalism, public relations, broadcasting, advertising and many other professional fields. The institution also remains one of the most affordable universities in Nigeria, while enjoying consistent support from the Lagos State Government. All these factors continue to make LASU the preferred choice for thousands of admission seekers every year.

How important is the reputation of a university in influencing students’ admission choices?

A university’s reputation plays a very significant role in students’ decisions. LASU lives up to its slogan, “We Are Great.” The institution has built a strong reputation through quality teaching, research, infrastructural development and the achievements of its graduates.

Students are naturally attracted to institutions known for excellence because they are confident that such universities will provide quality education and better career opportunities. The numerous awards won by LASU students in public relations, journalism and other communication-related disciplines further strengthen the university’s reputation nationally and internationally.

To what extent does the location of a university affect its attractiveness to prospective students?

Location contributes to a university’s attractiveness, especially when the institution is situated in an economically vibrant environment like Lagos State. Lagos offers students access to industries, media organisations, government institutions and numerous professional opportunities that complement classroom learning.

Being located in Lagos also enables students to participate in internships, industrial training and networking opportunities that prepare them for life after graduation. This makes LASU particularly attractive to students seeking practical experience alongside academic studies.

How significant is affordability in determining where students apply for admission?

Affordability remains one of the strongest factors influencing students’ admission choices. Despite its growing reputation, LASU continues to offer quality education at relatively affordable fees compared to many other universities.

The Lagos State Government has consistently supported the university and successive administrations, ensuring that education remains accessible to many qualified students. This balance between quality and affordability has contributed significantly to the increasing number of applicants seeking admission into the institution.

What challenges do universities face in balancing growing student demand with quality education?

The increasing number of admission seekers places enormous pressure on university infrastructure, academic staff and available resources. Universities must therefore continue investing in classrooms, laboratories, technology and staff development to maintain educational standards.

At LASU, management has continued to address these challenges through continuous infrastructural expansion, staff capacity building and improved academic planning to ensure that quality is not compromised despite growing student enrolment.

How can Nigerian universities maintain academic excellence despite rising admission pressure?

Universities must prioritise continuous staff development, investment in infrastructure and the effective integration of technology into teaching and learning. Strong leadership and sound academic planning are equally important.

At LASU, the administration has maintained uninterrupted academic calendars, strengthened ICT usage and provided a conducive learning environment. These measures have helped sustain the university’s ranking and academic reputation despite increasing admission demand.

In what ways are professional and media-related courses shaping the future of higher education in Nigeria?

Professional and media-related courses are becoming increasingly important because communication now plays a central role in every sector of society. LASU has produced seasoned journalists, broadcasters, researchers, continuity announcers, videographers, editors, photographers, cinematographers and public relations professionals who continue to shape Nigeria’s media industry.

The university also encourages students to participate in professional competitions organised by bodies such as the Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN), the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) and the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism. These opportunities expose students to industry standards and prepare them for global competitiveness.

How should universities adapt their curriculum to meet the realities of artificial intelligence, digital technology and changing communication trends?

Universities must embrace emerging technologies by integrating artificial intelligence (AI), digital communication tools and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into teaching, research and professional training. Technology has transformed the way communication is practised and taught, making it imperative for higher institutions to continually review and update their curricula to reflect current industry realities and equip graduates with relevant digital competencies.

At Lagos State University (LASU), ICT has become an integral part of academic activities. In the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, the university has made significant investments in technology-driven learning, ensuring that lecturers effectively utilise digital platforms, thereby enhancing their visibility and academic engagement both within and outside Nigeria.

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