The 2024 MTN Media Innovation Summit is currently underway at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), centred around the theme “Sustainability of the Media Business in the Digital Age.”
This important event, running from 4 September to 5 September 2024, is a collaboration between UJ’s School of Communication, Pan-Atlantic University in Nigeria, and MTN Nigeria. It forms a crucial component of the MTN Media Innovation Programme (MIP), a six-month course designed to equip media practitioners in Nigeria with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate and thrive in the rapidly evolving media landscape.
“This is an era for the media industry that is filled with both challenges and opportunities, but what will determine its future is the conversation around innovation,” remarked Dr Sifiso Mnisi, Programme Director and Head of UJ’s School of Communication, during the Summit’s opening session.
Dr Mnisi emphasised the need for media practitioners to critically assess their role in the changing landscape and the responsibility of academic institutions like UJ in training media professionals for this new era.
“This remains a noble profession that doesn’t require gatekeeping but demands careful and intentional practice; the integrity of the media must be vigilantly protected,” he added.
UJ Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, addressed the Summit’s theme, highlighting that every sector of society is experiencing fundamental shifts driven by technological advancements. “Innovation is key to how we respond to these shifts. Through the evolution of media, there is still immense value to be gained. Media remains a powerful tool for disseminating information, shaping public opinion, and contributing to a more meaningful and engaging society.”
Professor Mpedi further noted that the MTN Media Innovation Programme is designed to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital age, empowering participants to create impactful media content.
The keynote address was delivered by Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Honourable Kenneth Morolong, who underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to achieve media transformation and sustainability. “At GCIS, we have appointed a ministerial print and digital media transformation and revitalisation steering committee under the theme ‘Disruption Towards a Transformed Media Setting.’ The committee will develop a report recommending innovative strategies for revitalising print and digital media, ensuring society receives and engages with quality information.”
The two-day summit features panel discussions on topics including the concept of sustainability in business, the survival of media businesses in the digital age, the evolving media landscape in the era of social media, and science and health communication in Africa. The event brings together civil society, government representatives, media professionals, and renowned academics from both local and international spheres, creating a dynamic platform for dialogue and innovation.
