TECHNICAL REPORT ON MEDIA ATTACHMENT

MCM 302

AT

THE FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, MUBI

ADAMAWA STATE

FROM: 10th MARCH, 2025

TO: 21ST APRIL, 2025

BY

DANJUMA GRACE ALHERI

22U/480200

SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MASS COMMUNICATION,

FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCE, ADAMAWA STATE UNIVERSITY,
MUBI

MAY, 2025

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 CHAPTER ONE
S.I.W.E.S
The Industrial Training fund established by decree 43 was introduced in 1971, vis-
à-vis the birth of the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) the
same year by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN). It is against this
background that the industrial training fund (ITF) initiated, designed and
introduced SIWES Scheme in 1973 to acquaint students with the skills of handling
employers’ equipment and machinery.
The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) solely funded the scheme during its formative
years. However, due to financial constraints, the fund withdrew from the scheme in
1978. The Federal Government, noting the significance of the skills training,
handed the management of the scheme to both the National Universities
Commission (NUC), and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) in
1979. The management and implementation of the scheme was however, reverted
to the ITF by the Federal Government in November, 1984 and the administration
was effectively taken over by the industrial training fund in July 1985, with the
funding solely boned by the Federal Government. It is an integral part of the
requirements for the award of Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees in institutions of
higher learning, e.g. Colleges of Education, Polytechnics, Universities, etc.
Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) exposes students to
industry-based skills necessary for a smooth transition from the classroom to work
environments. It accords students of tertiary institutions the opportunity of being
familiarized, exposed, and prepare students of universities, polytechnics, college of
technology, college of agricultures and college of education for the industrial work
situation they are likely to meet after graduation and to the needed experience in
handling machinery and equipment which are not found in such an educational
institution.
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Objectives of SIWES
i. To provide students with relevant practical experience.
ii. To satisfy accreditation requirements set by the Nigerian Universities
Commission (NUC).
iii. To familiarize students with typical environments in which they are likely to
function professionally after graduation.
iv. To provide student an opportunity to see the real world of their discipline
and consequently bridge the gap between the University work and actual
practice.
v. To change the orientation of students towards labour market when seeking
for job.
vi. To help students access area of interest and suitability for their chosen
profession.
vii. To enhance students, contact for future employment
viii. To provide access to equipment and other facilities that would not normally
be available in the University workshop
ix. To enlist and enhance industry involvement in university education.
x. Summarily the objective of the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme.
xi. To solve, the problem of inadequate practical skills, preparatory for
employment in industries by Nigerian graduates of tertiary institution.
xii. To promote and encourage the acquisition of skills in industry and
commerce, with a view of generating a pool of indigenous trained manpower
sufficient to meet the needs of the economy.
xiii. To prepare aspiring media professionals for the dynamic demands of the
media industry, the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES)
offers vital hands-on training and exposure to practical media operations.

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Industrial training, also known as Media Attachment or Student Industrial Work
Experience Scheme (SIWES), is a critical part of the academic journey for Mass
Communication students. It bridges the gap between classroom learning and the
practical realities of the media industry. The program is designed to expose
students to real-world media environments, allowing them to acquire hands-on
experience, develop industry-relevant skills, and gain a deeper understanding of
media operations.
This report details my six-week industrial training experience at the Mass
Communication Department of Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Taraba State. The
program provided me with the opportunity to engage directly with professional
facilities and media tools in various practical units within the department.
Throughout the period, I was exposed to the day-to-day practices involved in
broadcasting, photography, public relations, and advertising.
With proper supervision and mentorship, this experience helped reinforce the
theoretical foundations I had acquired in the classroom, while also developing my
technical, communication, and collaborative skills. This attachment not only
broadened my understanding of the media landscape but also enhanced my
preparedness for future career opportunities in the field.

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INTRODUCTION
My attachment was undertaken at the Department of Mass Communication,
Federal Polytechnic Mubi, a renowned institution committed to excellence in
media education. Over a duration of Six weeks, I engaged in various activities and
projects under the tutelage of esteemed faculty members.
This report aims to elucidate the practical application of theoretical knowledge
acquired during academic studies within the vibrant environment of the
Department of Mass Communication. It endeavors to document the skills honed,
challenges encountered, and lessons assimilated throughout the attachment period.

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 PLACE OF MEDIA ATTACHMENT
Federal Polytechnic Mubi, located in Adamawa State, Nigeria, is a leading
institution of higher learning established in 1979. Renowned for its commitment to
technical and vocational education, it offers a diverse range of undergraduate and
postgraduate programs. With modern facilities, experienced faculty, and a focus on
practical training, Federal Polytechnic Mubi prepares students for successful
careers in various fields.
The Department of Mass Communication at Federal Polytechnic Mubi is a
dynamic hub of learning, creativity, and innovation. It plays a vital role in shaping
the next generation of media professionals by providing comprehensive education
and practical training in various aspects of mass communication.

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 ORGANIZATIONAL DIAGRAM/STRUCTURE

RELATIONSHIP WITH THE ORGANISATION

My attachment at Federal Polytechnic Mubi was defined by the strong professional
relationships I established with both colleagues and supervisors. The supportive
nature of the team and their willingness to share their expertise were instrumental
in my professional development. My assigned mentor played a significant role,
offering invaluable guidance and constructive feedback that continuously propelled
my growth.

The collaborative culture at Federal Polytechnic Mubi created an environment of

teamwork. I felt encouraged to share my ideas and actively engage in discussions,
confident that my contributions were valued. These relationships enriched my
overall experience and provided me with a dependable network of professional
contacts for the future.

EXPERIENCE
During my media attachment at the Department of Mass Communication at
Federal Polytechnic Mubi, I had numerous enriching experiences and opportunities

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that significantly contributed to my professional growth. Here are some key
highlights of my journey:

Orientation And Lectures

Upon joining the department, I participated in an orientation program designed to
familiarize new students with the facilities and resources available. The
comprehensive lectures covered a broad spectrum of topics essential for newspaper
and magazine journalism. This included:
Types of Newspapers: Understanding the various categories and their specific
characteristics.
Features of Newspapers: Learning about the essential elements that make up a
newspaper.
Planning a Newspaper: Gaining insights into the strategic planning required to
publish a newspaper.
Creating a Dummy Sheet: Practical exercises in designing mock-ups of
newspaper layouts.
Journalism Terminology: Mastering the specific language and terminology used
in reporting.

Radio Studio
The radio studio was an integral part of my training. Here, I learned about:
Studio Components: The layout and functions of the studio and control room.
Radio News Writing: Techniques for crafting compelling news scripts.
Field Reporting: Conducting fieldwork, including sourcing news stories from
locations like the Mubi market.

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Photo-Lab
In the photo lab, I delved into the art and science of photography. My training
included:
Photography Basics: Learning about different types of cameras and their
functionalities.
Camera Handling: Techniques for capturing high-quality images, focusing on
practical application.

Television Lab
The television lab experience provided insights into television production. Key
learning points included:
Television Equipment: Understanding the various tools and components used in
TV production.
Lab Components: Detailed lectures on the different equipment and their specific
uses in the television lab.

Public Relations and Advertising Lab

Exploring the Public Relations and Advertising Lab was particularly enlightening.
Here, I gained knowledge about:
Lab Overview: Understanding the purpose and functionality of the lab.
Advertising Mediums: Learning about different platforms and tools used in
advertising.
Practical Exercises: Engaging in activities like writing press releases and creating
advertisements for various products.

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Assignments and Presentations
Throughout my training, I completed numerous assignments and presentations.
These tasks were designed to reinforce the theoretical knowledge gained and
provide practical experience, enhancing my understanding and skills in mass
communication.

My time at Federal Polytechnic Mubi was profoundly educational and fulfilling.

The hands-on training and practical exercises equipped me with a comprehensive
understanding of various facets of mass communication, particularly in journalism.
This experience has been instrumental in preparing me for a successful career in
the field.

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SUMMARY
During my time at the Department of Mass Communication at Federal Polytechnic
Mubi, I had extensive opportunities to learn and grow through hands-on training
and practical exercises. The experience covered a wide range of topics, including
newspaper and magazine journalism, radio news writing, photography, television
production, and public relations and advertising. The combination of theoretical
lectures and practical assignments provided a comprehensive understanding of the
mass communication field.

RECOMMENDATION
To further enhance the learning experience at Federal Polytechnic Mubi, I
recommend the following:
Expanding the frequency and variety of field assignments to give students more
real-world experience.
Investing in the latest media technology to ensure students are trained on up-to-
date equipment used in the industry.

CONCLUSION
My experience at Federal Polytechnic Mubi was profoundly enriching, providing
me with a solid foundation in mass communication. The hands-on training across
different media platforms—newspapers, radio, photography, television, and
advertising—equipped me with essential skills and practical knowledge. This
holistic approach to learning has prepared me well for a career in journalism and
media, ensuring I am well-versed in both the theoretical and practical aspects of
the profession.

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