CHANDIGARH, February 11, 2025-The PG Department of Journalism and Mass Communication of Goswami Ganesh Dutta Sanatan Dharma College, Chandigarh successfully hosted a lecture on the ‘The Digitization of Media: How Social Media is Changing the Way We Consume Information,’ under the PM-USHA Scheme (RUSA). Dr. Aarti Kapur Singh, an award-winning journalist, media strategist and content production specialist, captivated the audience with her expertise and real-world insights.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Aarti Kapur Singh expressed her thoughts on present day technology, “In India, people may not have toothbrushes, but they have access to the mobile phone. Access to technology has become easy.”

Dr. Singh emphasized how social media platforms have transformed traditional journalism, reshaped public opinion and altered news consumption patterns. “The Covid pandemic led to a shift to digitisation of traditional print media that individuals used primarily to get news. Isolation led individuals to switch to social media during the time. But social media isn’t being used by the present generation to obtain news and information, but for entertainment.”

She also explained how the algorithm governs what people see on social media. She highlighted the disadvantages of technological revolution including misinformation, ethical concerns, and the role of artificial intelligence in content curation. “Social media that was meant to social, informative and current has failed on all three counts,” she remarked.

Dr. Ajay Sharma, Principal inaugurated the session and stated, “As the media landscape continues to evolve, it is imperative for journalism students to stay ahead of emerging trends. Social media has revolutionized communication, and sessions like these help our students understand its power, challenges and responsibilities.”

Dr. Priya Chadha, Head of the Department and Convener of the event, proposed the vote of thanks, “Our students are the future of media and journalism. Exposure to industry experts like Dr. Singh helps them bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world media dynamics.”

The session concluded with an interactive segment, where students and faculty engaged in discussions about media literacy and the importance of media ethics in the digital age. The event was organised by faculty members Ms. Ambica Sharma, Dr. Divya Jyoti Randev, Dr. Gurjeet Kaur, Dr. Sonia Gupta and Ms. Parul Bakshi.