Innovative Partnership between MGM University and Sakal Media Group; Students to Get Hands-on Training across Print, TV, and Digital Media
Journalism is no longer just the art of writing news; it has now become a multi-dimensional communication art in the era of video, data, social media, podcasts, and artificial intelligence.
In these rapidly changing times, transforming journalism education is the need of the hour. Driven by this vision, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between MGM University's College of Communication, Culture and Media and the Sakal Media Group is not just a formal agreement, but a proactive effort to build a robust bridge between industry and academia.
Adapting to a Changing Media Landscape
Today, the media world is evolving at a prompt pace. The nature of journalism has completely transformed due to the influence of artificial intelligence, digital platforms, mobile journalism, and social media. In such a scenario, classroom education alone is no longer enough. Students require:
- Direct newsroom experience
- Insight into editorial processes
- Mentorship from industry experts
The collaboration between MGM University and Sakal Media Group is designed to effectively fulfill these crucial needs.
Bridging the Gap Between Education and Industry
This MoU will provide students of the B.A. Multimedia Journalism program with comprehensive industry-oriented training. They will gain access to:
- Internships and live projects
- Expert lectures and specialized workshops
- Newsroom visits and practical exposure
This initiative will significantly narrow the gap between academics and the corporate world, introducing students to professional environments while they pursue their degrees.
An education that balances knowledge, skills, and values will fully prepare students for global competition.
Modern Curriculum for Modern Journalism
Today's journalist does not just write articles; they shoot videos, broadcast live via mobile phones, analyze data, produce podcasts, and craft impactful digital stories for social media.
To cultivate these essential skills, MGM University has aligned its curriculum with the demands of modern media. Subjects such as Mobile Journalism, Data Journalism, Video Storytelling, Podcasting, Graphic Design, Digital Content Creation, and Media Ethics will thoroughly empower students for the future.
Boosting Employability and Professionalism
Through this collaboration, students will work alongside experienced journalists, editors, and media professionals. This hands-on environment will help them build confidence, internalize professional discipline, and unlock broader employment opportunities. It is a powerful stride toward fostering employment through education and building community-oriented journalism through employment.
Aligning with NEP 2020
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 strongly emphasizes experiential, skill-based, and industry-linked education. The agreement between MGM University and Sakal Media Group serves as an excellent blueprint for implementing this policy.
Key Signatories and Dignitaries Present
The MoU was formally signed by:
- Uday Jadhav, CEO, Sakal Media Group
- Dr. Ashish Gadekar, Registrar, MGM University
- Dr. Rekha Shelke, Principal, College of Communication, Culture and Media
- Santosh Shaligram, Editor, Sakal (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar edition)
Also present at the occasion: Shri Ankushrao Kadam (Chancellor), Dr. Vilas Sapkal (Vice-Chancellor), Dr. Parminder Kaur (Deputy Registrar), along with Sanjay Chikte (Unit Head, Sakal Media Group), Nilesh Raut, Dr. Asha Deshpande, Dr. Shiv Kadam and Dr. Zainab Minhaj.
