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If you are planning to join a media college in 2026,, here is how you can future proof your career in an AI driven industry.

1. Learn AI Tools - Familiarize yourself with AI platforms used in media .
2. Build Digital Skills- Video editing,data visualization,podcastingand social media strategy will be key.
3. Focus on Ethics -AI will flood newsrooms with content but your ability to to remain truthful, unbiased and sensitive will set you apart.
4. Strengthen Storytelling- Practice creative writing,reporting and feature stories. Human emotions are irreplaceable.
5. Stay Curious and Adaptive- Media is evolving fast.Flexibility will keep your career relevant.

FAQ Students Ask About AI in Journalism

Q.1 Will AI replace journalists completely?

Ans- AI may take repetitive reporting ,but story telling ,investigation and ethical decision making need humans.

Q.2 Should I still choose journalism as a career in 2026?

Ans- Absolutely ,Journalism is evolving ,not ending.In fact AI creates new opportunities for creative and tech savvy journalists.

Q.3 What Skills should I focus on?

Ans- Digital Literacy,critical thinking ,creativity ,communication and adaptability.

Q.4 Can AI make journalism boring?

Ans- No,AI handles routine updates,which gives journalists more time for meaningful impactful story telling.

Q-6 Will AI make journalism more trustworthy?

Ans- It depends on how it is used. AI helps fact checking but can also spread bias or misused,Human oversight is essential.

#AIInJournalism #MediaAdmissions #RobotsInMedia

The World Still Needs Your VoiceAI is here to stay,and it will keep changing how newsrooms function.But here’s the truth every aspiring media student should remember..AI may create reports ,but it cannot replace your passion,your questions,your storytelling or your ability to connect with people. The journalist of the future will not compete with robots but will collaborate with them -using AI is a tool not a threat. Become a powerful tech oriented communicator,an anchor by using AI prompts you can be more impressive and versatile.

The International Centre for Journalists (ICFJ) is a highly respected nonprofit organisation established in 1984, headquartered in Washington, D.C. It is dedicated to advancing the quality and impact of journalism globally by providing extensive training, mentorship, fellowships, and resources to journalists and media professionals from over 180 countries. With a mission to help journalists to provide reliable reporting that helps create free and robust societies, ICFJ has acted directly with more than 177,000 journalists around the world, helping create the future of independent journalism for over 40 years.

ICFJ’s Role and Services

ICFJ provides journalists and newsrooms with a variety of programmes in three main channels:

• Assisting journalists and media editors by providing tools and information to help them report on critical issues of our time.
• Supporting journalists to innovate and embrace new ways of telling storeys and using digital tools to better engage communities 
• Helping independent news organisations to be financially sustainable with effective business models

The organisation conducts training workshops, seminars, and international exchanges that enhance journalistic skills such as investigative reporting, digital media proficiency, data journalism, health journalism, and press freedom advocacy. And, with its International Journalists' Network (IJNet), it creates a global community to share resources and opportunities in multiple languages.

Impact on Journalism and Society 

Journalists supported by ICFJ have been vital in unravelling corruption, advancing human rights and social justice, and enhancing health awareness among people. This strong reinforcement aids journalists to increase the reporting on the underprivileged groups and check authority, which is core in dynamic democracies. Many participants have advanced to leadership roles in media, influencing positive change through high-quality news reporting.

Another theme that the organisation focuses on is the safety and freedom of journalists, it studies the safety of female journalists targeted by online violence, disinformation, and the loss of trust. This research guides ICFJ’s efforts in shaping safer and more trustworthy media environments globally.

Aspiring Journalists: Opportunities

If you want to join journalism, ICFJ has good opportunities such as fellowships, scholarships, and training programmes, which are aimed at developing skills and enhancing the ability to tell stories. The most prominent among them are the prestigious ICFJ Knight Fellowships, which are sponsored by the Knight Foundation, and which promote innovation and experimentation in newsrooms around the world, including in India. The fellowships are based on the digital transformation, newsroom entrepreneurship, audience engagement, and data-driven investigations, which are major aspects of the modern career of journalism.

Why should journalism aspirants know about ICFJ

In India’s rapidly evolving media landscape, aspiring journalists can benefit immensely from ICFJ’s programmes that provide access to international standards, practices, and networks. ICFJ empowers Indian digital health, development, and gender reporters throughout the region to transform their communities with the help of partners such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. This topicality to the multicultural social backgrounds of India makes ICFJ an essential partner to the journalists, who pursue excellence and social impact. 

In Summary

• ICFJ is a global leader in training and support in journalism with emphasis on trustful, independent news.
• It has practical initiatives and fellowships that are customised to meet the burdens of the modern journalist.
• It drives critical research in media freedom, journalist safety, and innovation.
• The opportunities that the ICFJ offers aspiring journalists, particularly in India and other countries with democratic political systems, can be used to develop a professional career and impact the society positively.

ICFJ stands as the global movement of journalism– the foundation of democracy and development–thrives with  integrity, creativity and impact. 

A student who creates a viral reel on social media often stands out more than a topper with no portfolio.In traditional fields like medicine or engineering marksheets decide your entry.But in media admissions,creativity matters more than grades.Media in india is evolving faster than ever.With OTT platforms ,digital first newsrooms league ,influencer culture and AI-driven storytelling,media education is no longer about theory alone, it’s about creativity adaptability and originality.

Your creativity is your best resume. Colleges today don’t just want students with high marks, they want storytellers, content creators and innovators who can redefine the future of Indian media.Many colleges and universities ask students to submit a portfolio of creative work blogs,videos, short films campaigns and podcasts as part of their admission process. 

Media colleges in India such as IIMC,FTII,Symbiosis,JamiaChrist University,Xavier’s and niche private universities increasingly assess creativity, communication and storytelling skills during entrance exams and interviews.

Creativity is the Core of Media Careers -

Every media role from journalist to filmmaker from PR strategist to advertising copywriter relies on creativity.

Journalism - Finding fresh angles to report everyday news.

Digital Content- Turning complex issues into engaging reels,memes or infographics.

Advertising- Designing campaigns that strike emotions and drive action.

Filmmaking- Telling stories visually that resonate with audiences.

If you prove your creativity during admissions colleges see you as future ready colleges see you as a future ready candidate who can thrive in any media career.

Why Creativity Matters More in India's Media Landscape

India has the largest youngest population,the world fastest growing OTT market and one of the most dynamic journalism industries. Every year thousands of students apply for media admissions in India. But colleges don’t just want students who can memorize, they want students who can stand out with their ideas. That’s why your creativity is the biggest differentiator in 2026.

The Industry wants Top Graduates-

Top recruiters in India Times of India,Hindustan Times,NDTV,Zee ,Disney Hotstar,Jio Studios ,Netflix,PR agencies advertising firms prefer students who showcase creativity.They want graduates who can create fresh content campaigns,viral content and innovative media formats.This is why media colleges are making creativity a key admission factory.

Creativity is a key to problem solving. Creativity is not just about being artistic its about finding new ways to solve problems.

• Journalists need to find fresh story angles.
• PR professionals must solve brand crises with smart campaigns.
• Filmmakers handle budget challenges with creative direction.
• Admissions officers in India know that a creative thinker is a future leader.

How Media Colleges in India Assess Creativity for the final admissions- 

Entrance Exams- Many now include creative writing ,opinion essays or content analysis tasks.

Interviews - Panels often ask students to share unique ideas for news coverage,campaigns or shows.

Portfolios- Students who present original content often impress the panel more than those with just theory knowledge.

Your Creativity is Your Ticket

When you walk into media admission in India in 2026,your creativity will walk in before you do.Your projects,your ideas,your storytelling will speak for you more powerfully than marksheets or resumes.

Students,Creativity is your resume.Your portfolios your passport.Your ideas are your admission ticket. So,start creating now,because your dream media college is waiting for your story, your vision and your voice.

In 2025, Gen Z in Nepal led the charge of organising an unprecedented democratic experiment where they would vote on the new interim government of their country via an online meeting organised via Discord, the popular communication platform. When Nepal grappled with political upheaval, corruption scandals, and social media bans, this bold use of digital tools signalled a new era of youth-led governance and digital democracy in South Asia. 

Political Unrest and Gen Z Activism

The politics of Nepal took a turn at the beginning of September 2025. The administration of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli experienced tremendous pressure over mass protests following his regime's ban on 26 social media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook. This move sparked massive protests spearheaded by the young citizens aged between 13 and 28- the Gen Z generation- who perceived the ban as the denial of digital freedom and the last in a long lineage of graft and nepotism by the ruling elite.

The demonstrations grew quickly, culminating in bloody clashes with the police and causing the unfortunate deaths of at least 72 demonstrators, as reported by the government and independent sources. Protesters stormed government buildings and homes of past prime ministers and demanded accountability and systemic political reform. 

With this crisis, the Prime Minister Oli resigned on September 9, 2025, leaving a leadership vacuum in a country of more than 30 million people.

The Digital Revolution: electing Nepal's interim leader using Discord

As institutional trust was at an all-time low and traditional political systems broke down, politically awakened Gen Z Nepalese sought out new digital tools. Discord is a free US-based communication chat formerly aimed at the gaming community. Still, it has quickly become a community discussion platform in any field, becoming the place for Gen Z to connect and decide who will be the leader of Nepal. 

The movement was led on Discord by an influential Gen Z activism group called Hami Nepal, with more than 160,000 members. The organisation established a special server platform, Youth Against Corruption, which emerged as the hub of countrywide political discussions that enrolled more than 100,000 individuals, including the representatives of the global Nepali diaspora.

This is in contrast to the traditional elections where the participants were permitted to discuss in real-time, have moderated debates and informal voting polls to shortlist and elect candidates who would hold the interim prime minister office. Participants referred to the move as a mini-election to choose an individual capable of leading Nepal to free and fair elections due in March 2026.

How It Worked: Consensus on Online Debates

The Discord server was a place of lively debates on the most important national topics, including job creation, changes in education, police accountability, and the improvement of healthcare systems. Members, many of whom were new to the political discourse, were educated about the governance processes and asked questions and fact-checked information in special sub-rooms.

Five candidates became leaders in the server:

• Sushila Karki, the former Nepal Chief Justice.
• Mahir Pun is a prominent social innovator.
• Arkaang, a social activist, local mayor,
• Sagar Dhakal, a young politician and cricketer.
• Bochan Timalsina is a YouTube influencer and movement advisor.

Sushila Karki emerged as the winner of the polls after a series of deliberations and several polls. This was later approved by the president of Nepal, Ram Chandra Poudel, and the Army chief, Gen. Ashok Raj Sigdel, which was an indication of military consent essential to any interim rule in the unstable political climate in Nepal.  

Problems of Virtual Democracy: Inclusion, Manipulation, and Verification

Despite the innovative approach, the experiment was not without issues. The server faced challenges, including:

• Trolls and other non-Nepalese elements who tried to influence votes
• The challenge of establishing the identity of voters and having the voices of everyone heard, representing the Nepali population
• Pro-monarchy forces that attempted to penetrate discussions, and
• The possibility of fake news and fanaticism.

The organisers reacted by setting up fact-checking avenues and fact-checking teams to help ensure transparency and order. A Discord moderator and recent graduate, Shaswot Lamichhane, observed that the process was far more egalitarian than in-person forums. However, it had some disadvantages of being manipulated by participants due to the online nature of the platform.

Why does this step of Nepali GenZ matter? 

The Gen Z-driven adoption of Discord in Nepal to choose a government interim leader is a turning point in participative politics and digital democracy. It shows how young movements armed by cheap technology and social media can uproot established political structures and hold politicians accountable in ways that were unheard of a decade ago.

The strategy provides a possible example of other countries facing corruption issues, political stalemate, or social media bans. Online platforms may reduce political participation hurdles, particularly for the younger age group that has been marginalised in decision-making processes in the past.

Nevertheless, it emphasises the thin line between inclusivity and digital governance experiment. The question of legitimacy, prevention of misinformation, and the creation of legal frameworks remain relevant in developing democracies in the digital era.

Preparing for Nepal's March 2026 Elections

Nepal has never had a youth consensus to elect an interim leader, so it is now faced with stabilising its governance and preparing to hold its next general election. With their involvement in this process, generation Z has rejuvenated the hopes of a transparent, meritocratic political future.

As this newfound democracy is cultivated, the government must combat the demonstrations' fundamental cause: corruption, unemployment, and the absence of the rule of law through digital freedoms. In the meantime, the Nepalese experiment shows that with proper design and attention, online platforms can supplement traditional politics and make the process of governing more participatory and responsive.

Sports is no longer just about the game on the field ..its about content, analysis, entertainment and digital storytelling. With IPL, Olympics ,FIFA e-sports and regional leagues growing every year the demand for sports journalists, analysts and storytellers is higher than ever.

For students dreaming of a career in media, sports journalism is one of the most exciting and well paid ever. But what are the top roles? Let’s explore five profiles that not only pay well but also give you a chance to live your passion for sports.

1.Sports Commentator & Broadcaster

What they do: Give live commentary, pre and post match analysis and connect fans with the excitement of the game. 

Skills needed: strong communication, deep understanding of sports, voice modulation, quick analysis.

Why it pays well: big Broadcasters star sports Sony, JioCinema ,ESPN hire commentators with lucrative contacts.

Average Pay: 6-12 lakh per year for fresher’s experienced commentators earn much higher, sometimes in crores per season.

Bonus: Fame, fan following and a chance to travel with teams globally.

2.Sports Reporter & Multimedia Journalist

What they do: Covers matches, write breaking news, report from stadiums and create multimedia content for digital platforms.

Skills needed: Writing, photography, video editing ,social media handling

Why it pays well: Digital media houses Cricbuzz, ESPNcricinfo, Sportskeeda,The Athletic pay handsomely for journalists who can create fast, engaging content.

Average pay: 5-10 lakh per year, international reporters earn higher salaries.

Bonus: Direct access to players, stadiums and behind the scenes coverage.

3.Sports Anchor & Show Host

What they do: Present sports shows, host debates, moderate pre and post match discussions, interview athletes.

Skills needed: Confidence on Camera, voice clarity, presentation skills, ability to handle live shows.

Why it pays well: Anchors are the face of the sports channels, often landing sponsorships and endorsements.

Average Pay: 8-15 lakh per year top anchors earn 50 lakhs annually.

Bonus: Celebrity status, networking with athletes and opportunities to branch into entertaining hosting.

4.Sports Analyst & Data Journalist

What they do: Analyze game statistics, create performance breakdowns ,predict outcomes and present insights through visuals.

Skills needed- Analytical thinking, good writing and good presentation skills

Why it pays well: With sports betting fantasy leagues and AI based prediction booming, analysts are in high demand. 

Average Pay: 7 to 12 lakh per year senior analysts and consultants earn 20 lakh plus.

Bonus: Opportunities with sports channels, fantasy platforms and international sports boards.

5.Digital Content Creator in Sports

What they do: Make reels, Youtube Videos podcasts, memes ,and blogs about sports. Many combine journalism with entertainment.

Skills needed- Video editing, storytelling, social media growth, audience engagement.

Why it pays well: With millions of fans consuming sports on Instagram, Youtube Videos, memes, and blogs about sports. Many combine journalism with entertainment.

Average Pay- 5-20 lakh per year depending on reach top creators earn in crores.

Bonus: Creative freedom, personal branding and the possibility of becoming a global influencer.

Aspiring Sports journalists should start your own sports blog ,YouTube Channel or Podcast. Build strong knowledge of one or two sports deeply, eg. cricket, football, esports. Learn multimedia skills writing, video editing and social media. Intern with sports media houses to gain real experience. Network with players, PR teams and journalists.

Turn Your Passion into Profession -Sports Journalism is not just a career it’s a chance to turn your love for the game into your life’s work. Whether you are behind the mic, infront of the camera, analysing stats or creating viral sports content there is a space for you in the booming industry .If you are a media aspirant in 2026,sports journalism offers excitement, recognition , travel and a well paying career. Your journey could start from your college newsroom today and take you to the World Cup Finals tomorrow.

So, pick the mic, the camera, or the pen. The game is waiting for your story to begin! 

Media is no longer just about newspapers or TV, it’s about AI driven newsrooms, OTT platforms,podcasts,reels,and immersive storytelling. The right college can turn curiosity into creativity and creativity into a career. Choosing the best media college in 2026 is not just about a degree,it’s about your future identity as a communicator,creator and changemaker.

Know Your Dream Before Choosing the College

Do you see yourself as a journalist, filmmaker anchor,content creator ad filmmaker,PR professional or designer?

Write down your dream role before shortlisting colleges,Universities. When you are clear in your mind about choosing streams then look at these certain parameters to select the college university to proceed for the final admission.

•  Look at the curriculum. A good college does not just teach , it updates with time.
•  It must have included AI in media and Journalism. 
• It must include Multimedia Storytelling, Digital Marketing & Branding, OTT & Entertainment Studies, Data Journalism & Analytics, Virtual Reality & Augmented Reality.
• You should compare the curriculum and check if they are future ready. Media education is practical ,not just theoretical.
• You should check that TV studios and newsrooms, radio studios and podcast labs, film production and editing suites, AR/VR labs, media libraries and digital archives are available on campus.
• The strength of the media college lies in its faculty and mentors. Are the professors industry veterans or just academics?
• Check guest lectures, workshops and masterclasses do take place? Good mentors open doors to internships, projects and jobs.
• Media thrives on exposure and networking. Top universities often tie up with media houses, and news channels. Does the college guarantee internships and industry visits?
• Check what Alumni speaks, check the success stories. Alumni networks also help with the job placements and mentorship.
• Does the college support placement?What is the average salary package? Do students get jobs in journalism, film, advertising or corporate communications?
• Check Fees ,scholarships return on investment. Sometimes a slightly costlier college with better placements and exposure is worth it.
• Location shapes opportunities to grow. A college in metro cities may offer more internships, guest lectures and real world exposure.  
• How is the campus culture and student teamwork. Do they have student media clubs ? Do they conduct media fest, cultural fest with media competitions? A vibrant campus builds your portfolio and personality. 
• Media is global. Does the college have student exchange programs? Do they conduct workshops with global journalists or filmmakers? A student who studied one semester abroad gains cross-cultural storytelling skills?
• Don’t just choose, connect with the campus. Can I imagine myself growing here for the next three years? Do I connect with the vibes of the students?

Choosing the right media college is not about finding the biggest name it's about finding the place where your creativity, curiosity and courage can grow. The right campus will not just give you a degree it will give you a stage to perform, a studio to practice and a network to shine.

Remember media is not just a career,it’s your voice to the world. Choose the college that helps you use that voice with power,purpose and passion.