INVESTIGATING THE PROSPECT AND CHALLENGES OF MASS COMMUNICATION UNBUNDLING POLICY IN NIGERIAN POLYTECHNIC: AN OPINION POLL AMONG LECTURERS IN KWARA STATE

This study assesses academics' perceptions of the prospects and challenges of the mass communication unbundling policy in the Nigerian polytechnic system, focusing on polytechnic lecturers in Kwara State. Underpinned by Rogers' (2003) Diffusion of Innovation Theory, the study examines the policy's potential to enhance specialisation and industry alignment, identifies implementation challenges, and assesses lecturers' readiness to teach under the unbundled departments. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 58 respondents through structured questionnaires administered to the academic staff of the Mass Communication Department across three polytechnics: Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin and Lens Polytechnic Offa. Findings show that while the policy promises benefits such as improved professional development and industry alignment, challenges like inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and limited capacity building for lecturers remain significant barriers. The study concludes that addressing these challenges through increased funding, training, and collaboration between institutions and industry stakeholders is critical for the policy's success. Recommendations include enhanced funding, infrastructure upgrades, and training programmes to ensure the effective implementation of the unbundling policy