NASELS-OAU Holds Third Annual Summit; Spotlights Tech, Media, Creative Writing

The National Association of Students of English and Literary Studies (NASELS), Obafemi Awolowo University, hosted its third annual summit on June 16, 2026 at the ACE Conference Hall, ICT Centre, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). The students of the department gathered to explore new opportunities in tech, media and creative writing.

Dignitaries in attendance included the Head of Department, Professor E.T.O. Babalola; Professor Kehinde Ayoola; Mr Benedict, a representative of Noisy Streetss Publishing; and Miss Bukola, one of the panellists.

HOD Calls for Sacrifice and Commitment

In his address, Professor Babalola observed that students no longer attended classes regularly. When he asked why, students cited transportation challenges as the main reason. He responded that class attendance is part of what guarantees academic success, adding that little sacrifice pays in the long run.

New Opportunities in Tech, Media and Creative Writing

The first panel session examined the theme, ‘Exploring New Opportunities in Tech, Media and Creative Writing.’ The panelists included Isaac Ariyo, Bukola Olafenwa, Benedict and Olatimehin Esther, the President of the Association of Campus Journalists, with Oyeleke Joel and Babalola Temitope serving as moderators.

The speakers advised aspiring writers to write daily and build relationships with established authors. Encouraging them to transition into tech to socialise, volunteer, and build confidence, speakers explained that the tech industry has room for newcomers willing to start and remain strategic.

Additionally, Olatimehin, a Humanities student, disclosed that courses outside her core discipline such as Dramatic Arts, Philosophy, and Stylistics were valuable to her journalism career, alongside time management, consistency, and determination.

Creative Expressions

The summit also featured cultural performances. Greatness performed a song by Fola. Aisha the Writer recited a poem titled ‘Pride’ and Idunu Precious performed a song titled ‘Ire Ayo’. The event also included a dance performance, dance competitions, games, and giveaways for attendees.

President Speaks on Leadership, Transition

In an interview with an InFocus correspondent, the NASELS President, Francis Ohacho, explained that the summit’s theme was chosen in response to ongoing debates about the relevance of Humanities in the 21st century increasingly shaped by technology. ‘This topic was picked to navigate how Humanities students can find their space in the digital age of the 21st century,’ he said.

Ohacho remarked that feedback from participants had been largely positive and that he was honoured by the turnout. Describing the role of president, he noted that the role was a difficult balance between academics and impact. He credited his background as a graphic designer and support from the media team for much of the event’s design work and urged incoming leaders to be ready to make sacrifices. ‘It starts with passion, which is what will keep them going, because at certain times they will be discouraged,’ he said.

Panellists Reflect on Craft, Confidence

Mr Benedict remarked that the inspiration for his writing comes from everyday life, noting that his most recent story drew on his complicated relationship with his father and explored the nature of love between a parent and child. He encouraged young writers to spend less time online and more time living and gathering real experiences: ‘Get up, drop your phone and live. Stop scrolling for too long. Gather experiences from different activities.’

Olatimehin said she works best during the day rather than at night, and that her leadership role had significantly shaped her personal goals, which she pursues independently. She credited her humanities and journalism background with helping her overcome stage fright and develop the confidence to speak publicly, including delivering impromptu speeches.

Student Reactions

Many attendees shared their impressions of the summit. Israel said the event exposed him to performances and skills beyond what is taught in the classroom. Adelabu Joy, from the Department of English, said she learned how to develop character in writing and intended to apply the lessons to her future work and spoken word performances.

Also, Faith Adetunbo, a 200-level English student, described the workshop as insightful, particularly its guidance on using AI responsibly and identifying opportunities in the media space.

Abikoye Paul Oluwadamilare, winner of the cooking competition, said the win boosted his confidence and motivated him to pursue bigger achievements.

Awards Presentation

Of five candidates shortlisted for the Noisy Streetss Publishing OAU Student Storytelling Prize, two were emerged as top winners. Olaitan Joy was named first runner-up for her book, No Anatomy Revision with the Dead. Adenike Ayomide won the top prize for her book, No Face, No Case, receiving ₦200,000 and a publishing deal with Noisy Street Publishing. Her book will also be featured on the publisher’s website. Abikoye Paul Oluwadamilare was recognised as winner of the cooking competition held on June 15. Noisy Streetss Publishing was also presented with an award, as was Dr Omigbule Ilari.

The summit closed with a vote of thanks from the President who thanked attendees for their support and wished everyone a safe journey home.