Hensard University has appointed Professor Femi Shaka as Dean of Communication & Media Studies, marking a new chapter in its growth and academic excellence
Hensard University has announced the appointment of Professor Femi Okiremuette Shaka, a distinguished film scholar, as the new Dean of the Faculty of Communication & Media Studies.
This move is expected to significantly bolster the faculty’s academic reputation and enhance its contributions to the field of communication and media, particularly in Nigerian film studies.
The announcement was made in a ceremony attended by Vice Chancellor Professor Dileep Kumar M., along with Dr. Thomas Terna and Dr. Cookey Ogechi, senior faculty members.
Professor Shaka, who previously taught in the Department of Film & Multimedia at the University of Port Harcourt, was warmly welcomed as the university’s new academic leader.
The event, while understated, underscored Hensard University’s commitment to academic excellence and its ambitious growth strategy in the fields of communication and media studies.
In a statement, Professor Kumar expressed his enthusiasm about Professor Shaka’s appointment, noting the profound impact he anticipates the new Dean will have on the faculty.
“Professor Shaka’s extensive experience and profound contributions to the field of film studies will undoubtedly elevate the quality of our programs and research,” Kumar said.
“His leadership will propel our faculty to new levels of academic excellence and industry relevance.”
Professor Shaka’s appointment is also marked by his donation of two of his critically acclaimed textbooks to the university library. “Nollywood Nation:
Industry Practice and Scholarship of Cinema in Nigeria” and “Fundamentals of Film Making, Theory and Practice” are already core reading materials for students of Nigerian cinema and filmmaking, providing invaluable resources for the university’s students and enriching the academic experience at Hensard University.
His contribution to the field of film studies, particularly his research on the sociocultural impact of Nollywood, has earned him international recognition.
Shaka’s publications are widely cited, and he is a regular speaker at global film and media conferences.
His reputation for innovative teaching methods and impactful research has garnered widespread respect within the academic community.
Dr. Terna and Dr. Ogechi, senior lecturers in the faculty, also expressed their excitement at the opportunity to work with Professor Shaka.
Both praised his approach to teaching and research, suggesting his leadership will inspire fresh creativity and critical thinking within the department.
This appointment comes as Hensard University looks to strengthen its academic stature and attract top-tier talent in communication and media studies.
The appointment of Professor Shaka aligns with the university’s strategic objective to offer cutting-edge programs and foster industry partnerships that prepare students for success in the dynamic and evolving landscape of media and communication.
Hensard University, which is located in Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State, is Nigeria’s first private university in the state.
Founded by His Excellency Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, Hensard University was established in 2023 with a mission to pursue academic excellence, foster character development, and bridge the gap between academic certifications and practical industry application.
The university aims to produce graduates equipped with the knowledge, skills, and creativity necessary for success in their chosen fields.
