AFAS Press Organises End of Session Hangout
Adeyemi Precious and Olubode Racheal
Following the successful magazine launch and handover ceremony of the Association of Faculty of Arts Students (AFAS) Press on Tuesday, February 25th, AFAS Press hosted its end-of-session hangout on Thursday, March 6th, to celebrate its members and strengthen the sense of bonding beyond the usual writing and deadlines.
The hangout, which had in attendance the President of the Union of Campus Journalists (UCJ), University of Ibadan, Mr. Olanshile Ogunrinu who is also the immediate past Editor-in-Chief of AFAS Press, along with members of the 2023/24 editorial board, the new AFAS Press Editor-in-Chief, and other dedicated members, took place at a serene location opposite the Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture.
The hangout featured engaging activities, including games, heartfelt storytelling sessions, and a shared meal that filled the air with warmth and laughter.
The event, moderated by Agnes Oyedokun, the former Features Editor, commenced around 1:00 p.m. with Opemipo Olukoga, the former Deputy Editor-in-Chief, leading the press prayer. Mr. Olanshile Ogunrinu then delivered the welcome address, expressing gratitude for the members’ presence and lauding the efforts of the past editorial board and all those who contributed to raising the organisation’s standards. He further encouraged members to continue uplifting these standards and to maintain efficiency in their work.
“I want to appreciate everybody for coming today. It’s been a great session for everybody. I want to commend the efforts of my editorial board members, other members, and the new inductees for a job well-done. Let’s make use of this moment to reflect and share meaningful time together. To the new editorial board, I want you to up your game and do better than we did which I believe you will,” he said.
The next highlight of the day was the “Lessons I Learnt” session, where members shared insights gained from their experiences as campus journalists. For Oluwatayo, the AFAS Press Editor-in-Chief, it was about the respect and recognition associated with campus journalism. Olanshile highlighted how campus journalism prepared him for the industry, while Oluwatosin, the former News Editor, emphasised the importance of always being prepared for impromptu calls and event coverage. Other members shared valuable lessons, including the necessity of fact-checking claims before publishing and the importance of projecting a clear and professional image to the public.
Moving forward, the final session featured appreciation speeches from all members. Agnes Oyedokun expressed gratitude to her colleague, Opemipo, for a journey well spent together and she also thanked the UCJUI President for his dedication and support towards everyone in the organisation. Many members appreciated Mr. Olanshile for his commitment to the organisation and how impactful he has been. Gratitude was also extended to past editors such as Mashika, Foyin Ejiola, and others for their contributions.
The hangout session ended with the press prayer, led by the former Managing Director, Olorunfemi Praise. This was followed by the sharing of food and drinks, and a photo session to commemorate the event.
