Department of Communication and Journalism (DCJ), Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), organized a workshop on “Curriculum Design and Integration of IKS into PG Curriculum,” at Tulmulla Campus of the varsity.
The workshop brought together noted academicians and media professionals, including Prof. Ashok Ogra, Advisor (Mass Communication), Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication; Prof. Biswajit Das, former Director, Centre for Culture, Media and Governance, JMI; Prof. Sanjeev Bhanawat, former Professor, Centre of Mass Communication, University of Rajasthan; Prof. Ehtesham Ahmad Khan from MANU, Hyderabad; Prof. Anukuran Dutta from Gauhati University, Dr. Tariq Abdullah, Producer EMRC, University of Kashmir and Mr Farooq Wani, Editor Brighter Kashmir Newspaper.
Conveying his wishes for the success of the workshop, Vice Chancellor Prof A. Ravinder Nath urged all the experts to come up with fruitful suggestions and consolidation for the betterment of the curriculum, in view of the NEP guidelines.
Dean Academic Affairs and Dean School of Media Studies, Prof. Shahid Rasool, stressed on proper integration of IKS in curriculum based on original sources. “Data base of such sources needs to be created and made available to all.” He recommended implementation of 360 degree evaluation of students as envisioned in NEP 2020. “The assessment shall be in tune with teaching pedagogy of course. We can’t have the same system of evaluation for all courses,” he added. He also outlined five essential pedagogical pillars—teaching, learning, training, engagement, and evaluation—while advocating for the selective and meaningful inclusion of IKS.
Dr. Arif Nazir, HoD, highlighted the importance of periodically revisiting academic frameworks in response to evolving media landscapes. He emphasized the need for the development of the National Level Curriculum in Mass Communication, focusing on holistic development of students by creating Knowledge-Based Content, Ability and Skill Component, and Competency-Based Content.
Prof. Biswajit Das underscored the need for a clear academic blueprint that reflects both institutional vision and student expectations. He emphasized the necessity of robust academic resources and literature to effectively teach IKS, noting that the diversity of regional knowledge systems presents challenges to standardization.
Prof. Ashok Ogra pointed out that the concept of IKS is vast and requires careful contextualization. He recommended identifying departmental strengths and embedding IKS within existing courses rather than treating it as a standalone subject.
Prof. Ehtesham Ahmad Khan suggested incorporating classical frameworks such as Bharat Muni’s Natyashastra, along with greater attention to cultural diversity and vernacular languages. Prof. Anukuran Dutta advocated the application of Bloom’s Taxonomy in curriculum design and proposed the establishment of student-led photography, videography, and new media clubs. Mr. Farooq Wani stressed for the skill development of students to meet industry standards, focusing on platform journalism.
The session was facilitated by Dr. Nookaraju Bendukurthi and Dr. John Babu, Sr Asst Profs while Dr. Asif Khan, Sr Asst Prof proposed the vote of thanks. The workshop was followed by Board of Studies and School Board meetings.
