University dons list important of CSR on businesses

…Launch book on sustainable development, social responsibility

Public Relations experts have laid emphasis on the pivotal role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in both big and small businesses, underlining its significance in advancing society and safeguarding the planet.

They disclosed this at the launching of the book titled ‘Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development’ co-authored by Wole Adamolekun, Associate Professor of Mass Communication, Elizade University and Rotimi Olatunji, Professor of Public Relations, and Advertising at the Faculty of Communications, and Media Studies, Lagos State University. The event was held recently in Lagos.

During the launch, Adamolekun stressed the need for collective action in driving social responsibility, highlighting its potential through collaborations and partnerships among stakeholders. He emphasized the integral role of businesses in complementing government efforts to address societal needs.

“Collaboration and partnerships in social responsibility initiatives can yield significant impact. Our aim is to bridge stakeholders committed to fostering a more inclusive society,” said Adamolekun.

Co-author Prof. Rotimi Olatunji echoed this sentiment, challenging the notion that substantial financial resources are prerequisites for engaging in social responsibility. He advocated for its integration into business expenditures to alleviate tax burdens, promoting its accessibility to a broader spectrum of organizations.

“Our book aims to ignite a collective drive for positive change—a call for every individual to contribute to building a sustainable future,” Olatunji affirmed.

Reviewing the book, Lanre Arogundade, Director at International Press Centre (IPC), stressed the need for a broader participation in CSR endeavors.

Arogundade, represented by Oladokun Omojola, Professor of Journalism, Digital Humanities & Communication at Covenant University, highlighted the book’s role in shaping future business practices and fostering ethical conduct.

“The essence of Corporate Social Responsibility should be inclusive, involving everyone for substantial impact,” Omojola said.

Also at the event, Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, the Group Managing Director of CMC Connect LLP and Chairman of the event, underscored the transformative impact of genuine social responsibility. He urged companies to ensure their CSR initiatives genuinely benefit society, cautioning against disproportionate spending on promotion over the actual project.

“The world is evolving, and our social responsibility must evolve with it. Let’s ensure our initiatives genuinely contribute to societal well-being,” Badejo-Okusanya urged.

Attendees engaged in insightful discussions with the authors, delving into the inspiration behind their collaboration and the core themes explored in the book, providing a unique opportunity to explore the critical intersection of social responsibility and sustainable development.