Kulgam- A group of Media Studies scholars, graduates, and students from Jammu and Kashmir met with Education Minister Sakina Itoo on Saturday, to advocate for significant reforms in the state’s education system. The primary focus of their plea is the inclusion of Media Studies in the senior secondary curriculum and the expansion of Mass Communication programs at the college level.
The scholars argue that the integration of Media Studies is crucial in today’s digital age, where media literacy and critical thinking skills are essential. By introducing the subject, they believe students can develop a deeper understanding of the media’s role in society and learn to analyze information critically.
“The movement to integrate Media Studies into the education system began in 2015, driven by a growing recognition of the importance of media literacy in the modern world. A 2020 proposal by the Directorate of School Education Kashmir aimed at introducing Media Studies in schools has remained unimplemented,” a member of the delegation told Kashmir Observer. “Despite the announcement of 575 new lecturer positions in the region, Media Studies has yet to find its place in the curriculum,” he added.
The scholars pointed to successful models in states like Delhi, Kerala, and Maharashtra, where Media Studies has been integrated into senior secondary education. In 2012, CBSE introduced Media Studies as a vocational subject, setting a precedent for its inclusion in school curriculum.
In addition to its inclusion in schools, the delegation called for the expansion of Mass Communication programs to colleges in every district. They also highlighted the long-pending recruitment of Assistant Professors in Media Studies, which they believe is critical for strengthening the region’s higher education framework.
The proposed reforms, they argued, would also create new employment opportunities for Media Studies graduates, addressing unemployment among young professionals in Jammu and Kashmir. By developing a skilled workforce, the region could see growth in fields like media consultancy, strategic communication, and digital marketing.
Sakina Itoo expressed support for the initiative and assured the delegation that she would review the proposal carefully. She acknowledged the potential benefits of Media Studies in empowering young people and creating new employment opportunities in the media and communication sector.
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