A senior lecturer from University of the West of Scotland’s highly-regarded School of Business and Creative Industries has been appointed Chair of an internationally influential journalism group. 

Dr Margaret Hughes, Programme Leader for BA Journalism, has been elected Chair of the World Journalism Education Council (WJEC).

The globally-respected organisation represents universities worldwide that are involved in journalism and mass communication, seeking to provide a space for educators to focus on issues that are universal in the field.

She succeeds Professor Verica Rupar from Auckland University of Technology. 

Dr Hughes said: “It is a huge privilege to have been elected Chair of the WJEC and to take over from Verica Rupar is no small task. I am very much looking forward to working with journalism educators from across all of our member organisations to provide support and opportunity to share research and practice. Journalism across the world faces unprecedented challenges such as how to respond to the growing use of AI, climate change and misinformation – and the need for a strong, vibrant and supportive community for journalism educators is greater than ever, and my hope is that the World Journalism Education Council will provide that.”

Outgoing Chair Verica Rupar acknowledged Margaret’s impactful contributions, stating: “She has greatly contributed to the WJEC’s culture and has been instrumental in nurturing an environment that values openness, respect, and understanding. Despite our diverse backgrounds and teaching affiliations, we are united in our commitment to advancing the transformative potential of journalism education.”

UWS Journalism courses are highly-regarded, with graduates working in newsrooms across the country including for the BBC, STV, Channel 5 and various national newspapers and radio stations. 

Many alumni have gone on to become household names, moving from the newsroom to high profile roles in television presenting. 

Graduates from UWS Journalism and Broadcast Journalism courses include Sunday Mail news editor Craig Robertson, TV presenter Jean Johansson, Channel 5 Scotland Reporter Alan Jenkins, Global Scotland News Editor Corrie Martin and BBC Breakfast’s Abi Smitton.