Kathmandu Conference on Communication and Media Begins

The Kathmandu Conference on Communication and Media kicked off today, aiming to explore the opportunities and challenges faced by mass media in the era of technological advancement and the rise of social media.

The two-day event is jointly organized by the Tribhuvan University’s Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (CDJMC) and the Centre for Media Research Nepal. The conference features discussions on over a dozen working and research papers addressing key topics, including the spread of misinformation, social media usage, media bias, and media literacy.

In the inaugural session, Prof. P. Kharel delivered the keynote address, emphasizing that despite the adoption of advanced technologies by journalists and media outlets, ensuring fair and factual reporting remains a formidable challenge.

“The practice of verifying and re-verifying information has existed since Buddha’s time, yet today’s media often publish unverified news,” he remarked. Prof. Kharel also highlighted the lack of sensitivity in reporting natural disasters and accidents, urging legacy media to adapt to the digital era’s demands.

Dr. Kundan Aryal, Head of TU CDJMC, pointed out the evolving nature of modern audiences who are more engaged and discerning than ever before. He stressed the importance of delivering well-edited and thoroughly verified news content to meet their expectations. According to Dr. Aryal, the conference seeks to strengthen connections between media audiences and academic research.

The event has brought together media educators, researchers, and experts from Nepal, India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Discussions during the conference aim to address pressing issues in journalism and foster collaboration among media professionals in South Asia./

RSS