As digital platforms reshape the news industry, Prof. (Dr.) Pavitar Parkash Singh has called for a comprehensive overhaul of media education, urging journalism schools to make digital competencies a core part of their curriculum. He argued that future journalists must graduate with skills in mobile reporting, podcasting, social media storytelling, fact-checking, analytics, and AI-enabled journalism, alongside traditional principles of ethics and news reporting.

Highlighting the rapid transformation of news consumption, Prof. Singh said journalism education can no longer treat digital media as an optional specialisation but must recognise it as central to modern newsroom operations.

Digital media dominates news landscape

Referring to the FICCI-EY Media and Entertainment Report 2026, Prof. Singh noted that India's media and entertainment sector grew by 9% to ₹2.78 trillion in 2025, with digital media emerging as the industry's largest segment.

He observed that audiences increasingly consume news through mobile notifications, short-form videos, podcasts, and social media platforms, making digital storytelling and platform-specific content creation essential skills for aspiring journalists.

Curriculum needs industry-aligned reforms

Prof. Singh proposed that journalism programmes move beyond introducing a standalone digital media paper and instead integrate digital competencies throughout the curriculum.

His recommendations include:

• Mobile journalism and multimedia reporting
• Podcast production and audio storytelling
• Platform-specific content writing
• Data journalism and verification techniques
• Fact-checking and misinformation detection
• Analytics and audience engagement
• AI-assisted newsroom workflows

He also advocated newsroom-style practical laboratories, live industry projects, and modular training to bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice.

Preparing journalists for the creator economy

Beyond traditional newsroom careers, Prof. Singh highlighted the growing importance of the creator economy. He suggested that journalism students should receive training in content monetisation, sponsorship disclosures, digital audience engagement, and community building while maintaining editorial independence and ethical standards.

He emphasised that graduates should leave university with professional portfolios showcasing internships, freelance work, published stories, and verifiable digital skills that improve employability.

Faculty development equally important

Prof. Singh cautioned that outdated curricula and insufficient faculty training could widen the gap between students who gain practical digital experience and those who rely solely on conventional classroom instruction.

He stressed that institutions must regularly update teaching methods and invest in faculty development to keep pace with rapidly evolving newsroom technologies and industry expectations.

According to Prof. Singh, the future of journalism education lies in producing professionals who combine strong editorial judgment, ethical reporting, AI literacy, digital storytelling, adaptability, and cross-disciplinary skills, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven media landscape.