National Media Workshop Organised at BBAU: Experts Emphasise Fact-Based Journalism and Digital Skills

Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU) organised a National Media Workshop on 25 July under the joint auspices of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism and the Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh. The programme was chaired by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal. The Chief Guest was Shri Ashok Shrivastava, Senior Journalist, Editor and Anchor, DD News. Other dignitaries present on the dais included Prof. N. L. Gupta, President, Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh, Prof. Geeta Bhatt, General Secretary, Prof. Govind G. Pandey, Head of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism and Shri Mahendra Kapoor, Rashtriya Sangathan Mantri of Akhil Bhartiya Rashtriya Shekshik Mahasangh. Prof. Sanjay K. Dwivedi also extended special support in the successful organisation of the workshop. The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and floral tributes to Goddess Saraswati and Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. Following the Saraswati Vandana and the University Anthem, the organising committee felicitated the distinguished guests by presenting bouquets, saplings and shawls. Prof. Govind G. Pandey formally welcomed the participants and introduced them to the objectives and framework of the workshop.
In his presidential address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal stated that transforming India into a prosperous, strong and developed nation requires not only economic progress but also the social, political and spiritual empowerment of its citizens. He emphasised that nation-building is a collective responsibility requiring the active participation of every section of society. Describing youth as the nation’s greatest strength, he said it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to guide them with the right direction, positive values and ethical principles. Highlighting the significance of the media as one of the four pillars of democracy, he stressed the need to develop a balanced and positive perspective towards it. He further underlined that in today’s fast-paced information age, every piece of news or information should be verified before being shared in order to prevent fake news, misinformation and misleading narratives, thereby promoting responsible, credible and fact-based communication.
Delivering the keynote address, Shri Ashok Shrivastava, Senior Journalist, said that if India is to become a truly developed and prosperous nation, it is essential to understand the mindset, language and working style of the younger generation, particularly Gen Z. He observed that communication with young people must be tailored to their preferences so that they feel connected and engaged. He advocated transforming Gen Z into Gen V (Vision) a generation driven by foresight and purpose which, he said, would make meaningful contributions to the vision of a developed India. Sharing experiences from his journalistic career, he highlighted the importance of continuously updating oneself in today’s digital and technological era. He remarked that modern technology and digital platforms have become the most effective instruments of transformation, making it imperative to adopt new technologies for positive, fact-based and impactful communication. He also emphasised the need to mentor young people, provide them with the right direction and cultivate a strong sense of national responsibility.
Prof. N. L. Gupta, President of the Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh, elaborated on the organisation’s objectives, activities and role in nation-building. He stated that the Mahasangh is committed to promoting the Indianisation of education, the holistic development of teachers, the effective implementation of the National Education Policy and quality, value-based education. He further explained that the organisation strengthens the Indian Knowledge System, cultural values and national consciousness by fostering collaboration among teachers, researchers and academicians. Through training programmes, workshops, seminars and public awareness campaigns, it also connects educators with emerging educational and technological developments. He urged all participants to make education a powerful instrument of nation-building and actively contribute to the vision of a developed India.
Prof. Geeta Bhatt, General Secretary of the Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh, stated that the media is a powerful vehicle for bringing about positive social change by creating public awareness, disseminating accurate information and guiding society on issues of national importance. She said that the Mahasangh is continuously working towards educational excellence, national consciousness, social responsibility and the creation of a value-based society. Stressing the need for stronger coordination and communication between the media and the Mahasangh, she expressed confidence that their joint efforts would enable positive initiatives related to education, social awareness and nation-building to reach a much wider audience, thereby accelerating the vision of a developed India.
The formal session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Loknath. This was followed by a technical session chaired by Mr. Ashok Shrivastava, during which he discussed the impact of media narratives on society. He emphasised that every piece of information should be fact-checked before it is believed or shared, as this is essential to counter misleading and false narratives and to promote the dissemination of accurate and trustworthy information.
The second session featured three technical sessions on Reels Production, Mobile Journalism and Video Optimisation; Print Media in the Digital Age: Relevance, Credibility and Impact; and Developing Authentic and Impactful Content.
The third session provided participants with hands-on practical training through interactive exercises. The fourth session familiarised participants with the objectives and action plan of the Media Cell of the Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh.
The programme was attended by Prof. Mahendra Kumar Padhy, Prof. Rachana Gangwar, Dr. Arvind Singh, Dr. Loknath Singh, Dr. Kunwar Surendra Bahadur, Dr. Babita Pandey, other faculty members, and members of the Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh.

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