- Governor inaugurates Girls’ Hostel and ‘Medha AI and Media Research Centre’ at Kushabhau Thakre University of Journalism and Mass Communication
Governor Shri Ramen Deka inaugurated the Savitribai Phule Girls’ Hostel at the Kushabhau Thakre University of Journalism and Mass Communication today. On this occasion, he also inaugurated the ‘Medha AI and Media Research Centre’. Addressing the university’s faculty and students, the Governor remarked that this day holds special significance for the university. Savitribai Phule dedicated her life to the spread of women’s education and women’s empowerment; naming the girls’ hostel after her will provide students with an opportunity to draw inspiration from her ideals. He stated that the hostel would not only provide a safe and conducive environment for female students coming from remote areas but also support their higher education and talent development.
The Governor noted that the advent of Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming the landscape of media and journalism. In this context, the newly established ‘Medha AI and Media Research Centre’ at the university will play a pivotal role in helping students understand new technologies and preparing them for their responsible and effective use. Governor Shri Deka paid floral tributes at the statue of the late Kushabhau Thakre, the university’s guiding inspiration. He shared memories of the time spent in the company of the late Shri Thakre and recalled his inspiring quotes.
Shri Deka emphasized that journalism is a vital pillar of democracy, and maintaining its credibility is the responsibility of every journalist. Facts, truth, and public interest must be accorded the highest priority in news reporting. Thorough verification of facts is essential before publishing news about any individual, as a single news report can impact both the person concerned and society at large.
Shri Deka observed that while information spreads rapidly in the current era of social media, not all content available on these platforms is necessarily true. Therefore, journalists should disseminate news only after rigorously verifying the facts. He stated that responsibility is inextricably linked to freedom of expression. An excellent journalist is not merely the one who breaks the news first, but the one who delivers news that is accurate, factual, and responsible.
Highlighting the importance of print media, the Governor remarked that even in the modern era of electronic media, AI, and social media, print media remains a trusted medium within society. Journalism should play a pivotal role in bringing to light the needs and issues of the most marginalized individuals in society and advocating for necessary systemic reforms. He noted that there are many individuals in society who have accomplished remarkable work but have not received widespread recognition. Bringing the stories of such unsung heroes to the public through news reports and articles would serve as an inspiration to others.
The Governor emphasized that the welfare of students should be the university’s top priority. He called for concerted efforts to increase student enrollment, suggesting a target of at least one thousand students. He further stated that, alongside ensuring necessary accreditation for the courses offered, special attention must be paid to the quality of education.
University Vice-Chancellor Shri Manoj Dayal delivered the welcome address. The event was conducted by Dr. Ashutosh Mandavi, Head of the Management Department, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Registrar Sunil Kumar Sharma. All heads of departments, faculty members, professors, and administrative staff of the university were present on the occasion.