Emphasis on Making Media Education Relevant in the Age of AI*
*Lok Bhavan, Dehradun | March 17, 2026*
The Governor of Uttarakhand, Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd.), today chaired a meeting at Lok Bhavan with Heads of Departments and Deans of Media and Mass Communication from various universities across the state. The discussion focused on the theme: “Media Education in the Age of AI and Digital Information Ecosystem: Challenges, Ethics, and Opportunities.”
Addressing the gathering, the Governor stated that Artificial Intelligence and digital media have fundamentally transformed the way information is produced and consumed. Therefore, media education must evolve in accordance with the changing times. He emphasized that media is not merely a tool for delivering news but also plays a significant role in shaping public perception and societal thinking. Hence, media education should aim not only at producing skilled journalists but also responsible citizens.
Highlighting key concerns, the Governor pointed out that fake news and misinformation have emerged as major challenges in the present era. He stressed the need to equip students with proper training to tackle these issues effectively. He urged universities to incorporate subjects such as AI, data analytics, digital security, and fact-checking into their curricula.
On this occasion, the Governor also advised department heads to consider measures that would strengthen the economic independence of journalists. He suggested promoting startups and innovation in the media sector to enhance self-reliance and create new opportunities. He further emphasized that universities and media institutions should work towards providing guidance, training, and support to empower journalists in adapting to the evolving landscape.
The Governor underlined the importance of understanding rapid changes in the current scenario and adapting accordingly. He stated that Artificial Intelligence should be utilized in the interest of the nation and society, ensuring public welfare through its application. He also highlighted the need for widespread awareness to ensure the ethical and effective use of AI.
He further announced that such meetings would be organized regularly in the future to ensure continuous dialogue and improvement in media education. Expressing confidence, he said that the deliberations of the meeting would lead to positive and meaningful outcomes.
The meeting, organized with the support of Doon University, witnessed participation from Deans and Heads of Departments from various universities. Participants shared their views on the growing impact of AI, stating that Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming both media and education. They emphasized that instead of ignoring AI, it should be adopted wisely as a tool, without developing complete dependency on it.
Participants also stressed the importance of preparing students for the responsible and ethical use of AI. In light of increasing misinformation, they highlighted the urgent need for robust fact-checking mechanisms.
It was suggested that AI, fact-checking, and digital ethics should be made essential components of media education curricula. Additionally, the idea of introducing student exchange programs among universities was proposed.
Speakers emphasized that students should not be confined to theoretical knowledge alone but should be made practically competent to contribute to media literacy and public awareness in society. The need to develop indigenous AI tools aligned with Indian contexts and requirements was also highlighted.
Among those present at the meeting were Additional Secretary to the Governor Mrs. Reena Joshi, Joint Director Information Dr. Nitin Upadhyay, HOD Media & Mass Communication Doon University Prof. Rajesh Kumar, Prof. Rakesh Rayal from Uttarakhand Open University, Prof. Amresh Jha from UPES University, Prof. Taha Siddiqui from Graphic Era Hill University, Prof. Jaiveer Singh from DBS Global University, Prof. Kartikeya Gaur from Uttaranchal University, Prof. Ravi Shankar Upadhyay from Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand University, Prof. Parag Ranjan from Core University, Prof. Sheel Shukla from Subharti University, Prof. Ashish Kulshreshtha from SGRR University, Prof. Pooja Dabas from Sparsh Himalaya University, and Prof. Tausif Iqbal from Tula’s Institute.