The Department of Mass Communication at Usmanu Danfodiyo University is set to host its maiden international conference from June 7 to 8, 2026, focusing on the evolving relationship between media and emerging technologies.
Conference Theme and Participants
Themed “Media and National Development in the Era of Artificial Intelligence,” the conference will bring together academics, media professionals, researchers, and policymakers from around the world to examine the transformative impact of AI on communication and national development.
Dr. Danladi Bako, Chairman of the Organising Committee, announced that former President of the United Nations General Assembly, Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, will serve as Chairman of the conference.
Pre-Conference Activities
Activities will commence on June 7 with a pre-conference lecture delivered by Fatma El-Sayed of Cairo University at 1:00 p.m. Discussions will critically examine the intersection of media and AI within the context of an increasingly dynamic digital environment.
Opening Ceremony
The official opening ceremony is scheduled for June 8 at the University Auditorium and will be performed by the Vice-Chancellor, Bashir Garba, who is also the chief host. Professor Garba expressed the university’s readiness to welcome the international academic community.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University Governing Council, Attahiru Jega, along with council members, will attend the opening ceremony.
Keynote Lecture and Journal Launch
A major highlight will be the keynote lecture by Kehbuma Langmia, a double Fulbright Scholar and professor at Howard University. The event will also feature the unveiling of the maiden edition of the department’s academic journal, Alkalami, expected to contribute significantly to research in media and communication studies.
The conference is anticipated to provide a platform for robust intellectual engagement on the opportunities, challenges, and implications of AI for media practice and national development in the 21st century.
