Central University of Punjab Hosts Expert Lecture on ‘Media Literacy in the Digital Age’

Central University of Punjab Hosts Expert Lecture on ‘Media Literacy in the Digital Age’

Going Directly to the Original Source Is Essential for Accuracy and Credibility in Journalism : Prof. K. G. Suresh

Bathinda 21 October ( Ranjeet Singh Dhaliwal ) : The Department of Mass Communication and Media Studies, Central University of Punjab (CU Punjab), under the patronage of Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ramakrishna Wusirika, organised an expert lecture on “Media Literacy in the Digital Age.” The distinguished speaker of this programme was Prof. K. G. Suresh, Director, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, former Vice-Chancellor of Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Communication, and former Director General of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), New Delhi. The programme began with a welcome address and an introduction of the distinguished guest by Dr. Rubal Kanozia, Associate Professor, Head, Department of MCMS, and Director, Community Radio Station. He highlighted the importance of media literacy in today's digital environment and encouraged students to develop a critical approach towards the information they consume and share.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. K. G. Suresh discussed how the internet and smartphones have become an important part of everyday life, reaching even remote villages and tribal areas. He explained that digital platforms are not only helping people access information and services but also enabling rural communities to showcase their culture, share local concerns, and connect with wider markets. He further emphasised that the expanding reach of digital technology has enabled people from diverse sections of society to become prosumers, actively creating and consuming digital content while opening up new avenues for communication, creativity, and economic opportunities. At the same time, Prof. Suresh cautioned that the constant flow of information through digital platforms has made it difficult to distinguish between facts and false claims. He highlighted the growing concerns surrounding fake news, misleading narratives, cybercrime, and cyberbullying. He stressed that people must learn to question what they see online rather than accepting or sharing every piece of information they come across.

Explaining the difference between misinformation and disinformation, Prof. Suresh stated that misinformation refers to false information shared without the intention to mislead, while disinformation is deliberately spread to deceive people. Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, he explained how unverified reports and misleading claims about public health measures and vaccination created confusion and affected public trust. He called upon Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to introduce certificate programmes in fact-checking to strengthen the credibility of independent journalists and promote hyperlocal media. Prof. Suresh emphasised that journalists must verify information, check facts, and consult reliable sources before publishing a story. He emphasized that going directly to the source is essential for ensuring accuracy and credibility in journalism. In his presidential address, Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ramakrishna Wusirika expressed his gratitude to Prof. K. G. Suresh for his insightful address on media literacy in the digital age. He emphasised the importance of promoting media awareness, critical thinking, and responsible use of digital platforms among students through such academic initiatives. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Bhaw Nath Pandey, Dean, School of Information and Communication Studies.

Faculty members and students from various departments attended the lecture. Students from Baba Farid Group of Institutions, Bathinda, also participated. Faculty members of the Department of Mass Communication and Media Studies, including Dr. Kinshuk Pathak, Associate Professor; Dr. Chhavi Garg; Dr. Mahesh Meena; Dr. Mohd. Aleem Khan; and Dr. Vishnu Achutha Menon, were present on the occasion. The lecture offered students and participants an opportunity to understand both the benefits and risks of digital media and highlighted the importance of verifying information, and using digital platforms responsibly.