The Social Communications Directorate of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), has introduced a new element into the weeklong media literacy programme, namely; the ComWEEK Public Lecture at the annual Communications Week (ComWEEK) celebration. This lecture is scheduled to hold on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, as part of activities of the 3rd edition of the ComWEEK, at the CSN Resource Centre of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Abuja by 10am prompt. Based on the theme chosen by the Holy Father, Pope Francis, for the 2024 World Communications Day (WCD) celebration, the topic for the public lecture is: Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Opportunities for Evangelisation and Social Development.
The guest speaker on the occasion is Rev. Fr. (Prof.) Anthony Akinwale, OP, while the discussants include, Rev. Fr. Uche Obodoechina, Executive Secretary, Catholic Caritas Foundation of Nigeria (CCFN); Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin; Executive Director, Media Career Development Network, Lagos, and Rev. Sr. (Dr.) Florence Osho, EHJ, lecturer at the major seminary in Ibadan. Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), will give the Keynote Address, while John Cardinal Onaiyekan will be the Special Guest of Honour, and His Excellency, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, CON, Senate President, will be the Chairman of the occasion. According to the National Director of Social Communications and Convener, Rev. Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh, over 500 participants are expected at the event, including captains of industries, dignitaries from all walks of life, students, journalists, tech gurus, media enthusiasts, and representatives of the Church.