When the pioneer students of the Department of Development and Strategic Communication first walked into the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, few could have imagined the remarkable journey ahead. The faculty was still finding its footing, the department was relatively unknown, and even locating it on campus was, for some, an adventure.
Yet those who embraced the vision believed they were part of something with immense promise. Today, that promise has been fulfilled with the department’s attainment of full accreditation.
From its inception, the department pursued excellence with quiet determination. Lectures evolved into stimulating intellectual engagements, assignments sharpened analytical skills, and classroom discussions nurtured critical thinkers, writers, communicators, and development advocates.
Over time, what began as a new academic programme grew into a vibrant community distinguished by innovation, professionalism, and a commitment to societal impact.
Such progress did not happen by chance. It is the product of the unwavering dedication of lecturers and support staff whose commitment extended far beyond their official responsibilities. Through mentorship, sacrifice, and an enduring belief in the department’s vision, they laid the foundation for today’s success.
At the forefront of this achievement is the Head of Department, Dr. Aisha AbdulRauf-Salau, whose visionary and purposeful leadership has guided the department through its formative years.
Under her stewardship, the department has maintained high academic standards while fostering an environment where students are encouraged to excel academically and professionally. The award of full accreditation stands as a testament to her commitment to quality and institutional excellence.
Equally deserving of recognition is Mrs. Amina Shehu, the students’ Level Adviser, whose unwavering support has made a lasting impact on countless students.
Whether providing academic guidance, resolving challenges, or offering reassurance during difficult moments, she has consistently demonstrated patience, accessibility, and genuine concern for students’ welfare. Her contributions have significantly enriched the students’ academic experience.
Special recognition also goes to Mr. Auwal Sani, the department’s Examination Officer, whose professionalism and meticulous attention to academic processes have contributed immensely to the department’s growth.
Beyond his official responsibilities, he identified the need for a practical platform where students could develop professional media skills and consequently established Development and Strategic (DVST) Media, the department’s student-driven media platform.
Today, DVST Media provides students with invaluable hands-on experience in journalism, public relations, strategic communication, and digital storytelling, bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry practice. His initiative reflects an exceptional commitment to preparing students for the realities of the communication profession.
The department also owes a debt of gratitude to every lecturer and member of staff who has contributed to its development. Every lecture delivered, every assignment assessed, every correction offered, and every word of encouragement has helped shape a department built on academic integrity and excellence. This achievement belongs as much to them as it does to the students.
The attainment of full accreditation is more than an administrative milestone. It is a strong endorsement of the department’s academic quality, curriculum, faculty strength, and institutional capacity to produce graduates equipped for the evolving communication and media landscape. It validates years of careful planning, continuous improvement, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
For current students, this recognition carries profound significance. Every internship completed, every research project undertaken, every media campaign executed, every article written, and every examination passed now contributes to a degree backed by full national accreditation.
It affirms that their decision to join a young and emerging department was an investment in a programme destined for excellence.
As the Department of Development and Strategic Communication enters this new phase, the accreditation represents not a destination but the beginning of even greater opportunities. It provides a stronger platform for innovation, research, professional development, and national impact.
To the department’s leadership, lecturers, advisers, support staff, alumni, and students who believed in its vision long before this recognition arrived, this achievement belongs to all of you.
The department has reached a defining milestone, but its greatest contributions to communication, media, and national development are undoubtedly still ahead.
With contributions from Abashi Rahab, Oladapo Omolola Blessing, Jamiu Abdulgafar Olamilekan, Joel Maina and Aniefiok Victoria Asuquo
The authors are 300-level students of the Department of Development and Strategic Communication, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Yakubu Gowon University (formerly University of Abuja), currently undertaking their internship at Image Merchants Promotions Limited (IMPR), Abuja.
