Ritorno in classe 13 anni dopo: il mio viaggio nel MIP

Jayne Augoye, a seasoned Nigerian journalist and editor, returned to the classroom for the first time in 13 years on 18 May, marking the beginning of her participation in the MTN Media Innovation Programme (MIP) at Pan-Atlantic University’s School of Media and Communication. The programme, which runs for six weeks and spans six months, is designed for media professionals in Nigeria, offering them a chance to engage in intensive training and skill development. Augoye, who holds a Master’s degree in Media and Communication, is currently entering her fourth month in the programme, having begun her journey nearly two weeks prior. Augoye's return to academic settings came after raising three children, triplets, who are now teenagers. Balancing motherhood with a full-time editorial role and other personal commitments made the idea of returning to school seem almost insurmountable. Despite these challenges, she decided to take part in the MIP, driven by a desire to challenge her existing perspectives on journalism, innovation, and her place within the evolving media landscape. Upon arriving at the university, Augoye anticipated traditional elements of academia: lectures, assignments, and familiar topics related to media and communication. However, she quickly discovered that the experience would be far more transformative than she had imagined. Her expectations were upended as she encountered fresh approaches to journalism, innovation, and storytelling. She noted that the programme encouraged participants to rethink their understanding of media practices and to consider themselves not just as journalists, but as storytellers, innovators, and problem-solvers. Among the courses that stood out during her early days in the programme were Innovation and the Future of Legacy Media, using The New York Times as a case study; Media Entrepreneurship and Product Thinking; Creativity and Design Thinking, including techniques such as SCAMPER and the Six Thinking Hats; and Corporate Communication and Strategic Planning. These classes, along with others, contributed to a significant shift in her mindset, helping her to see beyond conventional boundaries and embrace new ways of approaching media work. A key aspect of the programme has been the adjustment required to adopt a student mindset. For someone with over 16 years of experience in journalism, including roles in making news judgments and mentoring younger reporters, this transition has been both challenging and humbling. Augoye described the process of sitting in a classroom, taking notes, and engaging in discussions with peers from diverse backgrounds, including a tech entrepreneur, a content creator, and a music journalist, as a powerful reminder of the value of continuous learning and growth. Her group, composed of individuals with varied expertise and experiences, included a mix of veterans and newcomers to the field. This diversity fostered dynamic interactions and collaborative efforts, particularly during group assignments and presentations. Augoye reflected on the unique position she occupied within her team, noting the contrast between her experience and that of her colleagues. While she brought insights from years in the industry, she also learned to approach problems with fresh perspectives and openness. As the programme continues, Augoye remains committed to embracing the opportunities for growth and transformation it offers. Her journey reflects a broader trend among professionals seeking to stay relevant in an increasingly fast-paced and innovative media environment. With the programme still underway, her experiences and reflections continue to evolve, shaping her understanding of both herself and the future of media.