Last Updated on October 31, 2025 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
By Joy Adeyiga & Wuraola Dada
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, has commended the Directorate of Public Relations (DPR) for its forward-thinking initiative in organising a capacity-building workshop designed to enhance its staff efficiency and professional performance.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Olawale Dairo, the Vice-Chancellor gave the commendation while declaring open the workshop themed “Leveraging AI for Public Relations Excellence: Enhancing Communication and Reportage in the Digital Age,” held today, October 28, 2025, at the FUNAAB Zoo Park.
The Vice-Chancellor applauded the DPR Team for their commitment to continuous learning and adaptability in an ever-evolving communication landscape. He descbribed the training as both timely and relevant, noting that Artificial Intelligence (AI) was no longer a futuristic concept but a present reality that must be embraced to improve productivity.
According to him, “AI is not here to replace the human touch but to enhance it. It serves as a research and operational tool that makes work easier and faster.” He, therefore, encouraged participants to maximise the training by exploring practical ways of integrating AI tools into Public Relations practice for greater impact.
Delivering the first presentation titled “AI-Powered Communications: Practical Tools for Transforming Public Relations Practice in Higher Education,” the Director, Directorate of Academic Information Systems (DACIS), Prof. Olusegun Folorunsho, examined the growing influence of AI in communication management. He identified key pillars of AI integration in PR practice while highlighting ethical considerations and strategies for effective adoption.
In the second presentation titled “The Use of Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Public Relations Practice,” the Director, FUNAAB Zoo Park, Prof. Olufemi Sammy Sam-Wobo, underscored the symbiotic relationship between humans and AI, stating that “we need AI, and AI also needs us.” He explained that while AI improves engagement, it cannot replace human empathy and ethics. He, therefore, urged PR professionals to see AI as a collaborative partner that amplifies creativity and informed decision-making.
The final paper, presented through Google Meet, the Deputy Registrar I, Senate and Admissions, Dr. Abdussobur Salaam, focused on the pivotal role of Public Relations in fostering effective communication, teamwork, and collaboration within the university system. He emphasised that PR professionals should develop essential soft skills such as empathy, creativity, and interpersonal communication, alongside media management and strategic planning competencies.
Dr. Salaam, also the National Vice-President, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), stressed that effective Public Relations foster mutual understanding, promote the university’s image, and strengthen institutional harmony.
Earlier, the Ag. Head of DPR, Mr. Olasunkanmi Olajide, expressed appreciation to the University Management led by the Prof. Kehinde, the Zoo Park, and members of staff for their support towards the success of the workshop. He noted that the event, being the third in the series organised by the Directorate, was aimed at equipping Public Relations Professionals with modern tools and strategies for effective communication in the digital era.
Meanwhile, participants were also treated to a guided tour of the FUNAAB Zoo Park, which Prof. Sam-Wobo described as a unique venue suitable for workshops, conferences, seminars, and tourism.
The workshop drew participants from the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan (FCAIB), led by the Head of the Public Relations Unit, Mrs. Oyekemi Wilson.
Photos are attached below 👇
