NWU Faculty of Humanities hosts thought-provoking conference
The conference saw two amazing guests speakers take the floor: Prof Robert Horwitz from University of California, San Diego as well as Dr Lungile Binza, the COO of the SABC.
The power of media and political communication in Africa cannot be underestimated.
This was apparent during robust presentations and discussions at the first IAMCR Regional Conference Africa that the NWU Faculty of Humanities hosted from 1-2 June in Potchefstroom.
The theme of the conference was “Reimagining Media and Political Communication in Africa: Voices, Power and Participation in a Digital Age.”
The two keynote speakers included Prof Robert Horwitz from University of California, San Diego as well as Dr Lungile Binza, the COO of the SABC.
Prof Horwitz spoke on political sociology with a session titled “Understanding Trumpism and its Appeal.” His session offered fascinating insights on power dynamics and how political communication can transcend borders.
Dr. Binza provided a more local approach with a session on “Navigating the rise of OTT (Over-the-Top) platforms in Africa to advance authentic African content.” OTT platforms are digital platforms that provide content through the internet, such as streaming services, which is in direct contrast to traditional broadcast media, such as satellite television.
Dr. Binza highlighted how SABC Plus has grown since its inception and how the development and business model of this platform is crucial in providing information and entertainment as a public broadcaster, whilst competing with other commercial entities.
SABC during his presentation.
The appeal of SABC Plus lies in the fact that it is a free platform, which improves accessibility to local communities. Local content is king, especially when produced in a home language.
The conference through various workshops also explored how political communication, shapes and is shaped by the shifting contours of power, identity, democracy and digital technologies across the African continent.
Bosiu (in the back), Delphinah Sibanyoni, Sibusiso Moledi (back), Ntombikayise Mahuma
and their lecturer in the School of Communication Cornia Pretorius.
Various breakaway sessions were presented focusing on a myriad of topics related to digital media in the political sphere through Africa. This deepened the understanding of various topics and helped to facilitate important discussions.
“The conference brings together scholars and practitioners in the media and communication field from various countries, countries such as the USA, Nigeria, South Africa, and also even across South Africa from various universities and media institutions,” added Prof Gilbert Motshaathebe, the deputy dean in the Faculty of Humanities.
