Nearly 2,000 Nigerian journalists, University lecturers, and researchers have undergone professional training organised by Patrice Lumumba Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), with courses delivered across five states in 2026.
The programme was run through the University's Centre for Continuing Professional Education at its Faculty of Philology, with sessions held in Kwara, Nasarawa, the Federal Capital Territory, Osun, and Ekiti. Ten Nigerian institutions were involved as co hosts, including the University of Ilorin, Kaduna State University, Nasarawa State University, Kwara State Polytechnic, and Afe Babalola University.
Courses covered Digital Pedagogy for Higher Education Teachers, Entrepreneurial Journalism in Algorithmic Systems, and Implementing Ethics of Academic Writing and Research in Emerging Technologies. Programme Director Dr Mustapha Muhammed Jamiu led the sessions, focusing on practical skills for media practice, classroom teaching, and academic research.
RUDN University Vice Rector for Continuing Education, Elizaveta Telegina, said the initiative forms part of the University's international academic cooperation efforts. "Our continuing education initiatives are designed to expand international scientific cooperation and improve the quality of professional training for young specialists across African countries," she said.
Centre Director Kristina Abdus said the project has produced formal cooperation agreements with several Nigerian organisations, including the Centre for Research on the Development of Media Management and Society in Africa, the African Centre for Media and Intercultural Dialogue, Customer Service Awards Limited, and the Wakanda Media Foundation.
The 2026 training is the fourth edition of the programme since it launched in 2023, with previous courses covering media and intercultural communication, community journalism, and entrepreneurial journalism. Jamiu received awards from Kaduna State University and Thomas Adewunmi University, Oko Irese, in recognition of his involvement.
Whether the programme's reach will grow beyond its current five state footprint remains to be seen, though organisers say discussions with additional Nigerian institutions are ongoing.
