By Mercy Olabiyi
The Nigerian Association of Students of English and Literary Studies (NASELS), Obafemi Awolowo University, on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, hosted NASELS Summit 3.0 with the theme, "Humanities in the 21st Century: Exploring New Opportunities in Tech, Media, and Creative Writing."
The event brought together students, academics, and professionals to discuss career opportunities available to humanities graduates in the contemporary world.
The programme commenced with an opening remark by Professor Kehinde Ayoola, who welcomed participants and informed the audience that the Head of Department was on his way to the venue. Several interactive sessions and engagements followed.
A major highlight of the summit was the panel session, during which the panellists were formally introduced and their citations read. The panellists included Ariyo Isaac Ojukotimi, Bukola Olafenwa, Esther Olatimehin, and Wilfred Benedict.
Thereafter, the Head of the Department of English, Professor E. T. Babalola, delivered his address. In his speech, he appreciated the efforts of the NASELS executives and welcomed guests and participants. He emphasized the importance of academic commitment, stating, "You have been admitted to study English; sit down and study it."
Professor Babalola particularly addressed Part One students, describing them as the foundation of the department and encouraging them to participate actively in academic and professional development programmes. He advised students to identify challenges they encounter and seek appropriate solutions, stressing the importance of asking questions before taking action. He also encouraged students to make good use of their academic advisers.
The Head of Department further expressed concern over the declining rate of class attendance among students and noted that many students struggle with answering examination questions effectively. He concluded his speech with the charge: "Put your mind into whatever you are doing."
Moderators Joel Oyeleke and Babalola Temitope were subsequently invited to the podium alongside the panellists, officially ushering in the interactive session.
Responding to questions on opportunities in technology, media, and creative writing, the panellists shared insights from their respective fields. When asked how beginners could start a career in technology, Isaac Ojukotimi advised aspiring tech professionals to "start anyhow and strategically," encouraging them to begin learning without waiting for perfect conditions.
Speaking on opportunities in the tech industry, Bukola Olafenwa noted that social media management can serve as an entry point into technology-related careers. She identified technical writing, product management, and data analysis as viable fields for humanities students seeking to transition into tech. She also emphasized the importance of maintaining an active LinkedIn profile to access professional opportunities.
Responding to questions on creative writing, Wilfred Benedict shared practical advice on developing writing skills and pursuing opportunities within the creative industry.
Similarly, Esther Olatimehin highlighted the relevance of both departmental and borrowed courses, encouraging students to connect with individuals who have excelled in their chosen fields. She stressed the importance of networking, mentorship, and building meaningful professional relationships.
Another major highlight of the summit was the announcement of the winners of the 2026 Noisy Streets OAU Storytelling Prize, organised by Noisy Streets Publishing in partnership with OAU NASELS. The shortlisted writers were Adenike Ayomide for "No Face No Case," Idowu Emmanuel for "The Rain Had Already Started," Morayo Adedini Esther for "Spider-Webs," Olayinka Goodness Oluwaseyi for "Town Gboro," and Olaitan Joy Damilola for "Anatomy Revision with the Undead."
At the summit, Adenike Ayomide emerged as the overall winner with her story, "No Face No Case," while Olaitan Joy Damilola emerged as the first runner-up with "Anatomy Revision with the Undead." The grand prize winner will receive a cash prize of ₦200,000, publication on the Noisy Streets website, and publication in the LIDD Vol. IV Annual Anthology.
The summit later transitioned into workshop sessions, where participants were divided into three groups based on their areas of interest: Media, Tech, and Creative Writing. The media workshop was facilitated by Esther Olatimehin alongside Oguntade Adedoyin and Ogunwale Mathew. The Tech workshop was led by Isaac Ojukotimi, while the Creative Writing session was facilitated by Wilfred Benedict and Sharon Ajanlekoko.
Participants also enjoyed brief interludes featuring giveaways and other interactive activities.
The summit ended with the presentation of awards to distinguished individuals in recognition of their contributions and achievements. This was followed by a photo session and a closing address by the NASELS President, Francis Ohacho, who expressed gratitude to guests, facilitators, organisers, and participants for contributing to the success of the programme.
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