The African Journalism Educators Network (AJEN) Round Table & Adenauer Media Lecture 2026

Under the theme “Reimagining African Journalism Education in a Time of Technological Disruptions and Possibilities”, the gathering brought together journalism educators, media practitioners, researchers, and academic leaders from across Africa and Germany. The conference provided a valuable platform for participants to exchange knowledge, strengthen professional networks, and discuss the evolving role of journalism education in responding to Africa’s rapidly changing media landscape.

It also allowed for critical dialogue on the future of journalism education and the role of African institutions in shaping resilient, innovative, and socially responsive media professionals.

Throughout the gathering, participants engaged in panel discussions, workshops, and presentations examining the impact of artificial intelligence, digital transformation, entrepreneurial journalism, and emerging media technologies on teaching and learning. Delegates shared experiences from their institutions, highlighting innovative pedagogical approaches through the academic tracks that featured in the programme this year.

A central focus of the discussions was the need to balance technological innovation with journalism’s core values of ethics, accuracy, accountability, and public service. An AI workshop was facilitated pointing to the need for more AI education and training for both educators and students.

The Adenauer Media Lecture, which has become a fixture of the annual round table, was delivered by Prof. Claudia Nothelle of the Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences in Germany. The lecture was titled “Video Didn’t Kill the Radio Star. AI Won’t Kill Us” and spoke to the perils and vast opportunities for innovative journalism offered by AI in the newsroom and in journalism training. Robust discussion followed and important questions were raised by the students and educators alike.

The AJEN gathering concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening continental cooperation and advancing excellence in journalism education. Participants agreed on the importance of embracing technological possibilities while proactively addressing the disruptions they bring, reaffirming AJEN’s role as a catalyst for innovation, knowledge sharing, and the development of future journalists capable of serving the public interest in a rapidly evolving media landscape.