CRACKS IN THE ROOF, CRACKS IN LEADERSHIP: A Semester-End Assessment of NAMACOS Administration
Beside the Department of Mass Communication at Osun State Polytechnic ( OSPOLY), Iree, stands a relaxation center used daily by students. Today, its condition tells a troubling story — cracked walls, worn-out sections, and a weakening roof that reflects years of poor maintenance despite serving as one of the department’s most active student spaces.
For many years, the structure has gradually become more than just an infrastructural concern. It now represents a deeper conversation surrounding student welfare, communication, and leadership within the National Association of Mass Communication Students (NAMACOS).
As the semester gradually draws to a close, concerns raised by students, stakeholders, and legislative representatives continue to generate discussions across the department. From delayed responses to student complaints to disagreements over orientation programmes and welfare matters, many believe the administration has struggled to maintain consistent engagement with the student body.
 |
| Screenshot of Petition written by SRC to NAMACOS Executives. |
One office that has particularly faced quite a lot of criticism is the office of the Public Relations Officer (PRO).
Traditionally, the PRO serves as the communication bridge between the executive council and students — responsible for information dissemination, public engagement, image management, and ensuring students remain informed about important developments.
However, several students have argued that the office appeared largely inactive during periods that demanded visibility, clarification, and effective communication.
During controversies surrounding additional charges and receipt-related complaints earlier in the semester, many expected stronger public engagement and clearer explanations from the administration. Instead, the response process was described by some as slow and insufficient.
The absence of visible communication during critical moments has contributed to growing perceptions that the administration struggled with transparency and responsiveness. Critics insist that once communication weakens, rumours grow louder, tensions deepen, and trust in leadership slowly begins to fade.
These concerns were further reflected in official communications circulated within the department. In an April 18 letter issued by the NAMACOS Stakeholders Chairman, the executive council was urged to prioritize transparency, accountability, and peaceful resolution of internal disputes.
Similarly, a notice released by the Student Representative Council (SRC) on April 20 publicly disagreed with the executive president’s reported decision not to organize an orientation programme during the current tenure — a programme many students consider important, particularly for fresh students trying to adjust to departmental activities and expectations.
While disagreements within student politics are not unusual, many believe such situations require stronger communication strategies capable of reassuring and properly engaging the student community.
Despite the criticisms, some students acknowledge that student leadership itself comes with financial, academic, and administrative pressures. Others, however, maintain that leadership must remain visible, accessible, and accountable regardless of challenges — especially in a department built on communication and media practice.
As conversations around welfare, transparency, and representation continue, one question quietly lingers across the department: Can leadership truly function effectively when communication itself appears weakened?
For a department rooted in journalism, public relations, broadcasting, and strategic communication, many believe the answer should matter to everyone.
About oluwablesscreative
No comments