Auwal Rafsanjani, Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), has emphasized the dedication of Nigerian youths to excellence, urging industry experts to provide the necessary support regardless of their chosen career paths.
Speaking at the 2024 Campus Journalism Awards (CJA) and lecture, Mr. Rafsanjani expressed pride in the event, recalling his involvement at its inception.
The 6th edition of the awards, organized by Youths Digest, was themed “Thriving in the 21st Century Media Landscape” and held on Saturday at the Cosmopolitan University Auditorium, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
Reflecting on the journey of the initiative, Rafsanjani remarked:
“What started in a small and modest way has now grown to gain national recognition. For me, this is a moment of pride. Seeing young journalists rise and do even better than we did in our time is truly fulfilling. It is heartening to see that this platform is not only surviving but thriving.”
He lauded the initiative’s role in inspiring the younger generation, highlighting their potential to defy negative stereotypes:
“This initiative is incredibly important. It is essential to encourage young students, reminding them that all hope is not lost.
Contrary to negative stereotypes, many young people are hardworking, focused, and committed to excellence. They are the future, and it is our duty to guide and support them.”
Mr. Rafsanjani further underscored the importance of recognizing and nurturing the talents of young people:
“Not every student is involved in crime or drugs.
There are countless bright and talented young individuals eager to make a positive impact. This is why it is crucial to nurture platforms like this, which inspire creativity and innovation.”
The Campus Journalism Awards, now in its sixth year, continues to celebrate the achievements of young journalists across Nigeria, providing them with a platform to thrive in the ever-evolving media landscape.
