National Students’ Symposium
MEDIA MATTERS:
Empowering Youth for a Future Communications
12-13 April 2024
organised by
Department of Electronic Media and Mass Communication
School of Media and Communication
Pondicherry University
in collaboration with
AWARE – Auroville International Township
&
Educational Multimedia Research Centre, Puducherry
Theme:
The symposium aims at empowering young minds to navigate the media landscape with understanding and purpose. Ours is a conscious effort to engage youth in exploring creative, innovative and sustainable perspectives that shape human future communications.
Why Youth?
Today, India has its largest ever adolescent and youth population and the largest youth population in the world. The young people of India hold immense potential to shape the future. Media Matters focuses on equipping them with the critical skills and perspectives needed to engage responsibly with media, understand its influence, and contribute to building a more sustainable and equitable world. Media literacy will empower the youth to understand how media narratives are constructed, identify biases, and critically evaluate information. It empowers the youth to become informed consumers and responsible creators, using media as a tool for positive change.
Engaging Beyond Reflection
Media Matters goes beyond mere media literacy. We provide experiential activities that encourage the youth to move from reflection to action. Through workshops, debates, and collaborative projects, youth will explore diverse media formats, delve into complex issues, and develop ethical frameworks that guide their interactions with the world around them. The event is an occasion for experiential learning and collaboration. The participating youth can dive into film, delve into the world of artificial intelligence, or demonstrate their creativity through photography. Each track offers hands-on activities, workshops, and expert mentoring, culminating in a chance to showcase the work at a public exhibition.
Karmayog: Action without Attachment
The symposium draws inspiration from the principle of Karmayog, acting without attachment to outcomes. We believe that by focusing on doing the right thing and equipping ourselves with knowledge and understanding, we can shape a brighter future for ourselves and society.
Auroville: A Living Laboratory for the Future
Our collaboration with Auroville, an experimental township dedicated to Human Unity, provides a unique platform for exploring sustainable models of living and communication.
Students from colleges and universities from across India participating in the media symposium will also get an opportunity to visit Auroville. Through field visits and interactions with thought leaders, the youth will gain insights into alternative perspectives on media, society, and governance.
Call for participation!
Join the Journey
The symposium is an invitation to explore, question, and create. It’s a chance to connect with a passionate community of young minds, engage in meaningful dialogue, and contribute to shaping a future where media empowers positive change. You are also encouraged to work in groups with creativity and resourcefulness.
Showcase your talent and win exciting prizes! Collaborate with your peers, hone your teamwork skills, and learn from each other’s diverse perspectives. Media Matters fosters a supportive environment for collective learning and growth.
The introductory session at Auroville breaks free from the limitations of legal and technological frameworks. Instead, we focus on an ethical approach to media engagement, equipping you with a values-driven perspective that extends beyond the symposium and into your future endeavours.
You will also be introduced to ongoing research and initiatives through field visits and introductory sessions in the fields of sustainable development, peace, e-learning, intrapersonal communication and governance. Experiential activities have been designed to engage you in a learning track of your choice of media. You stand a chance to have a public screening of your films and an exhibition of still images/photographic work created by you in the symposium.
Come, be a part of Media Matters – and let’s shape the future, together.
Registration details to be announced soon!
Here’s a glimpse of the deliberations in the National Symposium that await you.
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Media Matters Schedule
Arrival of participants on 11 April
Day 1 – 12 April
9 am: Welcome at DEMMC, PU
9.15 am: Departure for Auroville International Township
10 am -12 pm: Introductory session at SAWCHU, Auroville
Theatre-in-Education session by Dr. Radhika Khanna
12.30 – 1.30 pm: Lunch at Solar Kitchen, Auroville
2 to 4 pm: AWARE Auroville at Unity Pavilion
Q&A on Auroville and Awareness
Back to DEMMC, PU
Students leave at 4 pm for PU, for the first session in one of the three tracks from 4.30 till 6.30 pm.
Afternoon
4.30 to 6.30 pm: The 24-hour Challenge Begins
Introduction to three tracks in the symposium – Film / AI / Photojournalism
Evening
7 pm to 9 pm: Competitions at PU Convention Centre Auditorium hosted by the students of the department followed by dinner at the venue.
9 pm: Dinner
9.45 pm: Departure for guest houses
TRACK 1
Images in a Post-Truth world
12 April: 4.30 pm – 6.30 pm
13 April: 10 am – 5 pm
TRACK 2
Track the Truth: You can be a fact-checker
12 April: 4.30 pm – 6.30 pm
13 April: 10 am – 5 pm
TRACK 3
To be finalised
12 April: 4.30 pm – 6.30 pm
13 April: 10 am – 5 pm
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TRACK 1
Images in a Post-Truth world
Resource Person
Sudhesh Unniraman – Filmmaker, Writer, Trainer
Bio
Sudhesh Unniraman has worked primarily as a Content Head, Director, Creative Director, Writer and Communication Educator for three decades on a variety of subjects ranging from climate change, popular science, health, armed forces and current affairs.
Sudhesh has produced over 500 hours of broadcast content and has directed films for BBC World, Star TV (Asia), Discovery Networks(South Asia), Nat Geo (South Asia), History Channel (South Asia), Travel Channel (UK), TIMES Network (India) and Doordarshan (India).
Sudhesh was the Executive Producer for Nirankush (35mm, Hindi) which won the National Award for best socially motivational film (1998). In 2009 a film directed by Sudhesh, The Agony of the Ganges, was awarded the Best Film on Environment & Nature at the INKAFEST, Huaraz, Peru, 2009. His recent film on the Ukraine crisis has been nominated for Asian Television Awards (2024).
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Session Outline
- The 24-hour challenge to create films or still images
- Content to be based on words or phrases related to the symposium theme
- Invite students to imagine a future scenario for media and content creation
Session Duration (including public screenings): 11 Hours
Session activities (Day 1)
- Context to changes and challenges for media practitioners
- Compare past, present and future scenarios of content creation & viewing
- Discussion on how technology, software and AI have impacted form and content
- Arriving at keywords and themes for the creation of the films/still images
Session Activities (Day 2)
- Shooting & editing films/still images
- Film screening with audience interaction in the auditorium of the Department of Electronic Media and Mass Communication
- Still images to be displayed in the public space
Requirements
-Audio-visual hall with HDMI connectivity
-Sound system for presenter’s laptop
– Internet Connectivity (LAN preferred) for presenter
-Smartphone & Internet connectivity (WiFi) for participants
-Video Cameras/ Mobile Phones for recording
-Cordless microphones
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TRACK 2
Track the Truth: You can be a fact-checker
12 April: 4.30 pm – 6.30 pm
13 April: 10 am – 5 pm
Resource Person
Habeeb Rahman Y P
Journalist, Fact-checker & MIL Trainer
Bio
Habeeb Rahman Y P is a fact-checker with NewsMeter – an IFCN signatory of Poynter – and works as one of the third-party independent Fact-checking organizations with Meta. He also contributes fact-check articles for South Check – a dedicated fact-check portal.
He conducts Media and Information Literacy training for various cohorts under different projects, including the FactShala MIL Project supported by Google News Initiative.
He is associated with All India Radio, Doordarshan and Press Information Bureau in various journalistic positions.
Session outline
- Understanding the misinformation ecosystem on social media
- Critical and logical approach to engaging with social media content
- Identifying potential misinformation sources, formats and patterns
- Verifying text, image and video contents
- Dealing with deep fakes and AI-generated misinformation content
Session Duration: 3 Hours
Session Activities/Games
- Pre-session Quiz (Fact or Fake)
- Verifying visual contents – Quiz based game (Individual)
- Dig deep (Evidence collection from the internet – Group)
- Fact-checking (Output-based – Group)
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Day 2: 13 April
10 am – 12.30 pm: 24 hr challenge (3 Tracks)
12.30 pm – 1.30 pm: Lunch
1.30 pm – 5 pm: 24 hr challenge (3 Tracks)
5 pm: The 24-hour Challenge ends with Films/AI/Photographs Presentations/Display
5.30 pm – 6.30 pm: Closing session with screening of the award winning films, participants feedback and prize distribution
7 to 9 pm: Cultural performances at PU Convention Centre Auditorium hosted by the students of the department followed by dinner at the venue.
9 pm: Dinner
9.45 pm: Departure for guest houses
Organisers’ Profile
Pondicherry University
Pondicherry University is a Central University established by an Act of Parliament in October 1985. It is an affiliating University with a jurisdiction spread over the Union Territory of Puducherry, Lakshwadeep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The University’s objectives are to disseminate and advance knowledge by offering teaching and research facilities, to make provisions for studies in French and integrated courses in Humanities and the Sciences, and to promote interdisciplinary studies and research.
The University’s motto is ‘Vers la lumière’ meaning ‘towards the light’.
The main campus is located at Kalapet, 10 km from the town of Puducherry, in a serene and beautiful campus on the East Coast road of India, adjoining the scenic Bay of Bengal. The University also has campuses at Karaikal and Port Blair which currently offer graduate and doctoral programmes. The main University campus is spread over a sprawling 800 acres of lush green, Wi-Fi-enabled area, housing 15 schools, 41 departments, 10 centres, and 3 chairs, offering over 154 PG diploma certificates and research programs. The other two smaller campuses are located at Port Blair and Karaikal, and the university recently inaugurated another campus in Lakshadweep Islands. Within a short span of 28 years, the university has achieved tremendous growth in all dimensions and is fast expanding on its move towards excellence.
Department of Electronic Media and Mass Communication
Established in 2007, the Department of Electronic Media and Mass Communication in the School of Media and Communication offers four programmes of study that include an M.A. & Ph.D. in Mass Communication, and M.Sc. & Ph.D. in Electronic Media. The primary objective of the department is to provide equal thrust on theoretical and practical know-how in the spheres of journalism, television production, radio production, advertising, public relations, film studies, digital media studies, development communication, health and environmental communication, media and culture studies, photography, photojournalism, e-content development and audio and video editing.
The department aims to nurture cutting-edge media professionals with effective communication and critical thinking skills. Further, the department works towards preparing young minds with a strong foundation in technological and production skills, content writing, designing and expertise in media management. Implicit in this is the department’s efforts to ensure that students develop a thorough understanding of society so that they can proactively intervene in developing a just and humane society.
There are nine permanent faculty and over 240 graduate students and 40 Ph.D. students in the department. Enrichment lectures by national and international media professionals and academicians as well as workshops by media practitioners are organised regularly to amplify the theoretical and practical knowledge of students on various topics related to media and communication.
UFR Ingémédia of the University of Toulon (France)
UFR Ingémédia at the University of Toulon, France, is a vibrant hub where communication and innovation converge to shape the future of media. Established in 1990, Ingémédia has a pioneering legacy, offering a project-based curriculum that prepares students for the dynamic realities of the media industry. The institution fosters a collaborative atmosphere, where students from diverse backgrounds engage in projects that push creative boundaries, guided by experienced mentors and industry professionals.
Ingémédia’s commitment extends globally through partnerships with universities worldwide, providing students with exposure to diverse cultures. With an impressive employment rate, graduates become changemakers and innovators in the media landscape, contributing to the ever-evolving field.
More than a university, UFR Ingémédia is a vibrant community that nurtures personal and professional growth. With an inclusive culture, annual festivals, and guest lectures, it offers a unique platform for those passionate about shaping narratives and connecting hearts through the power of communication.
For those attending the conference, UFR Ingémédia invites exploration of the threads of communication, offering a remarkable opportunity to engage with the dynamic tapestry of media innovation.
Multimedia University (Malaysia)
Multimedia University (MMU) in Malaysia stands as a leading institution dedicated to excellence in education and research at the convergence of technology, creativity, and innovation. Established in 1996, MMU has played a pivotal role in shaping Malaysia’s digital economy by offering cutting-edge programs in areas such as Information Technology, Engineering, Business, and Creative Multimedia.
With state-of-the-art facilities, MMU provides a dynamic learning environment that equips students with the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving technological landscape. The university emphasizes research and development, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. MMU’s commitment to producing well-rounded graduates is evident in its holistic approach, combining academic rigour with practical exposure, ensuring students are prepared for the challenges of the modern workforce. As a beacon of technological advancement, MMU continues to contribute significantly to Malaysia’s growth as a knowledge-driven economy.
Multimedia University (MMU) is a an award-winning university with a global outlook. It is a leading university in Malaysia and listed in global rankings namely QS World University Rankings 2023 and Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2023. One of their primary objectives is to be able to inspire and innovate others. MMU prides itself on its unique diversity, hosting approximately 1,200 international students from 65 countries. Students have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge technologies through collaborations with major ICT players such as ZTE, Huawei, Nokia, Intel, Microsoft, Cisco, Motorola, and others. The university also extends its academic reach through international linkages with universities like Northumbria University, Western Sydney University, University of Southern Queensland, Auckland University of Technology, Hull University, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Essex, and more.
Functioning as an entrepreneurial university with industry-ready programs, MMU emphasizes a well-rounded education that combines field-specific fundamentals with entrepreneurial skills relevant to various industries and job markets. Students benefit from industry collaboration through state-of-the-art labs established in partnership with companies like ZTE, HUAWEI, Microsoft, Intel, and others. The Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) provides startup schemes, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset.
MMU is a unique niche as a research-led industry-driven university (RIU), MMU currently has the privilege of serving as one of the nation’s leading talent incubators. The university is dedicated to delivering an exceptional learning experience in a stimulating, supportive, and research-led environment. The industry-led curriculum ensures graduates acquire skills that are both enabling and encouraging. The university takes immense pride in nurturing and growing students in the digital talent pipeline into competent and responsible members of the workforce, who collectively support both TM’s and the nation’s growth areas. The 10 growth areas are Fixed Mobile Convergence (FMC)/Mobile Content Play, New Convergence growth, SME Digital Ecosystem, Cyber-Security, Smart Services Cloud, Submarine Cables, Content Delivery Network (CDN) dan Data Centre.
Oslo Metropolitan University (Norway)
Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet) in Norway stands as a dynamic institution at the forefront of higher education and research. With a commitment to academic excellence and societal engagement, OsloMet plays a vital role in shaping the educational landscape. Established in 2018 through the merger of Oslo and Akershus University College and the Norwegian School of Veterinary Science, OsloMet brings together a rich history of diverse expertise.
The university is characterized by a strong emphasis on applied research, innovation, and collaboration with both local and international partners. OsloMet offers a broad spectrum of programs across disciplines, spanning the arts, sciences, social sciences, and professional studies. Known for its vibrant and inclusive campus culture, OsloMet is dedicated to fostering critical thinking, creativity, and global perspectives among its students. Through its interdisciplinary approach and commitment to societal relevance, OsloMet stands as a beacon of academic advancement and community engagement in the heart of Norway’s capital city, Oslo.
International Center for Strategy & Communication (ICSC)
ICSC is a center for inspiration, inquiry, insights, ideation, innovation, integration, and introspection in the field of strategy & communication. ICSC is an international think tank of strategists, communicators, academicians, innovators, thought leaders, educators, and information technologists who focus on advancing knowledge in the field of strategy, communication-centric, research-based information, and conscious actions.
ICSC offers programmes related to various fields, wherein the leading voices of strategy and communication can look at various challenges facing humanity from various perspectives, and put forth a strategic actionable plan and a sustainable means to communicate the purpose, process, progress, performance, and payoff. It provides opportunities for experienced as well as young fellows to dive deeper and fish for solutions.
ICSC supports professional development through various coaching and training sessions and also provides networking options for members to enhance their purview and influence. It acts as a repository of international knowledge in the field of strategy and communication with rigorous research on a multitude of topics followed by relevant publications and campaigns to magnify the impact in various sectors.
Integral World (Auroville)
Integral World is a dedicated non-profit organization committed to catalyzing positive, purposeful, and sustainable change globally. Their ethos centers on the belief in an increasingly integrated world, where individual progress holds collective significance. With a core purpose to contribute to a positive, protected, pacific, and purposeful world, Integral World focuses on strategic, sustainable solutions. Serving as enablers for changemakers, they operate across research, strategy, communication outreach, and project implementation.
Welcoming stakeholders from diverse sectors aligned with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), prioritise cooperation, proactive action, and knowledge sharing for global impact. Emphasising SDG17 on global partnerships, Integral World seeks to mobilize stakeholders, fostering true collaboration for collective action. Their vision is to create a win-win world, ensuring that no one is left behind on the journey towards positive and sustainable change.
AWARE (Auroville)
AWARE Auroville stands as a conscious and dynamic initiative committed to fostering human unity within the Auroville community. Their mission revolves around nurturing open dialogue, mutual learning, and illuminating pathways across various dimensions of life, such as spiritual, cultural, social, economic, organizational, and ecological aspects. A unique aspect of AWARE is its purpose-driven and inclusive communication approach, emphasizing voluntary collaboration with diverse bodies in Auroville. Operating without monetary expectations, their services aim to benefit Auroville residents and humanity at large.
Guided by six core principles—Compass, Creativity, Cooperation, Correlation, Clarity, and Consistency—AWARE is dedicated to building an effective communication infrastructure crucial for Auroville’s role as a bridge connecting diverse streams of development. Committed to human unity, AWARE adaptively collaborates across Auroville’s varied interests, providing impartial professional advice and voluntary contributions to propel the community towards continuous progress.
The organizational structure of AWARE features the Actioning Crew, Advisory Council, and Anchoring Camp, embodying a fluid and adaptable nature to align with the spirit and purpose of Auroville. In essence, AWARE strives to be a catalyst for positive change, fostering unity and progress within the Auroville community.
Educational Multimedia Research Centre, Puducherry
The Educational Multimedia Research Centre (EMRC) at Pondicherry University stands as a pioneering institution since its establishment in 2012, dedicated to advancing the application of multimedia technologies in education. With a mission to enhance educational quality, promote engaging learning experiences, and provide innovative tools for educators, EMRC has been instrumental in creating digital learning materials and educational videos across various academic disciplines. Through activities like developing multimedia learning materials, producing educational videos, and conducting training programs, EMRC actively contributes to bridging the digital divide in education. The centre’s impact resonates nationally, as its materials are widely used, and it plays a pivotal role in training educators on effective multimedia integration in the e-content development of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). For more information, connect with them to explore their transformative contributions to education.