The landscape of modern journalism is shifting, and the next generation of storytellers is taking proactive steps to master their craft. In a powerful display of academic partnership, students of Journalism and Mass Communication from All Saints University Lango recently concluded an intensive study tour at LivingStone International University. This hands on experience was designed to do more than just teach technical skills; it was built to forge a new path for ethical, high impact reporting in Uganda and beyond.
During the visit, the Chancellor of LivingStone International University, Prof. Dr. Henri Buregea, delivered a stirring call to action for the aspiring media professionals. He emphasized that journalism is one of the most influential tools in society, capable of lifting communities or tearing them down. He urged the students to become guardians of the truth, reminding them that professionalism and ethics are the backbone of any successful career in communication.
Prof. Buregea shared a deeply personal story to illustrate the dangers of irresponsible reporting. He recounted a time when media outlets falsely claimed he had purchased an expensive home that he was actually just renting. This spread of misinformation, which quickly went viral, served as a catalyst for his own pursuit of communication studies. He wanted to bridge the gap between rumors and reality. He warned the students never to sell their integrity for financial gain, noting that accepting money to spread lies eventually destroys a journalist’s reputation and poisons public trust.
The collaboration between these two institutions is set to grow even stronger. Prof. Buregea announced that a new exchange program is being established, allowing students from both universities to share classrooms and learn from different academic environments. Furthermore, a new partnership with the Lango Cultural Institution is in the works, which will open doors for affordable scholarships for students from the Lango sub region, making quality education more accessible than ever.
Beyond the technical aspects of the job, the leadership at LivingStone International University is focused on the whole person. John Kauka, the Dean of Students for Journalism, highlighted that their mission is to produce leaders and mentors who can transform their communities. He encouraged the visiting students to never stop learning, as the media industry is constantly evolving and requires a commitment to lifelong education.
In a world increasingly dominated by technology, lecturer Musumbi Hilary provided a timely warning about the use of Artificial Intelligence. While AI can be a helpful assistant for finding solutions, he cautioned that it should never replace the human spirit of creativity and critical thinking. Relying too heavily on machines, he argued, risks stifling the very innovation that makes a great journalist stand out.
Mustafiri A. Suwed, the Head of Department at All Saints University Lango, explained that these tours are a vital lifeline for his students. Since the university is still in the process of building its own media studios, these visits provide the essential hands on experience in broadcasting and television production that students cannot get from textbooks alone. By visiting established facilities like those at LivingStone and the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation, students gain a competitive edge in the job market.
The participants left the tour feeling empowered and ready to change the world. For students like Calvin Otim, the experience was not just informative but truly transformative, providing a clear vision of what it takes to succeed in the fast paced, high stakes world of professional media. This collaboration stands as a shining example of how institutions can work together to raise the bar for education and ethical journalism.