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Dr Elisha Merick Magolanga is a distinguished journalist and Lecturer in Journalism and Media Studies at the University of Dar es Salaam, School of Journalism and Mass Communication (SJMC). With an illustrious career spanning over a decade, Dr Magolanga has made significant contributions to the field of journalism education and research in Tanzania.

Dr Magolanga’s academic journey is marked by notable achievements. He holds a PhD in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Dar es Salaam, where his research focused on the intersection of media and societal development. He also earned a Master of Arts in Journalism and Media Management from the University of Iringa (UoI), and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the same institution, formerly known as Tumaini University, Iringa University College (TUI-Co). 

Dr Magolanga has imparted knowledge at several esteemed institutions including the University of Iringa, Saint Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT) in Mwanza, and Archbishop James University College (AJUCo) in Songea. Since November 2022, Dr Magolanga has been a Lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam, where he also serves as the Coordinator of Practical Training.

Dr Magolanga’s teaching expertise is diverse and includes courses such as: - 

• News Writing and Reporting,
• News Editing, 
• Creative Design
• Online Journalism
• Persuasive Storytelling in Multimedia
• Investigative Journalism
• Media Management
• Development Journalism
• Research Methods in Journalism and
• Artificial Intelligence in Journalism.

His pedagogical approach is characterised by a commitment to integrating contemporary issues and technologies into the curriculum, thereby preparing students for the evolving landscape of the media industry.

In addition to his academic roles, Dr Magolanga has an extensive background in professional journalism. He began his career as a News Reporter for The Citizen newspaper, a leading publication in Tanzania. His practical experience in the field enriches his teaching and provides students with valuable industry insights.

Dr Magolanga is also an accomplished researcher and consultant. His research interests include the social media and development journalism. His scholarly work has been published in reputable journals, including “An analysis of Development Journalism practices in Tanzania’s social media” https://journals.udsm.ac.tz/index.php/umma/article/view/4968 and a study on “The use of online social media platforms by Tanzanian journalists to produce and disseminate development news”. https://www.ajol.info/index.php/tjet/article/view/238706 

As a consultant, Dr Magolanga has worked on various projects, including developing a Communication Strategy for the Tanzania Education Authority and providing training on public relations and advocacy. He has also been a consultant for the UNDP- SPANEST project on public relations and advertising related issues.

BA (TUI-Co) MA (UoI) PhD (UDSM) Email: magolanga.elisha@udsm.ac.tz/ magolangaelis@gmail.com