Agartala, Dec 17: The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (JMC), Tripura University, marked a major academic milestone on Tuesday with the launch of its first-ever conclave, “Synapse 2025,”.
The event, held at Sukanta Academy in Agartala, created a shared space for students across batches and alumni to interact, reflect and reconnect.
Head of the Department (I/C) Dr. Sunil Kalai formally opened the conclave in the presence of senior journalists Dr. Biswendu Bhattacharjee and Dr. Debraj Deb, writer Prajapita Debroy and faculty members Dr. Deepak Upadhyaya and Dr. Dharmendra Kumar Dubey.
Discussions during the programme focused on journalism education, ethical responsibility in media and the importance of sustained alumni involvement. Speakers highlighted how academic grounding and professional integrity remain crucial in an era marked by misinformation and commercial pressure.
Tracing the department’s evolution, Dr. Kalai said that since its establishment in 2009, the department has produced 336 graduates, many of whom are now working in print, electronic and digital media, while others have taken up independent media ventures.
He also pointed to a structural gap in the state’s education system, noting the absence of journalism at school and undergraduate levels, and stressed the need for early exposure to media studies.
An expert panel on “Common Sense of Media and Society” examined the growing challenges faced by the media ecosystem. Panelists warned against the spread of fake news and paid content and underlined the shared responsibility of teachers and working journalists in safeguarding public trust.
The conclave also recognised academic achievement. Alumni who have completed their PhD and qualified UGC NET/JRF, including Dr. Biswendu Bhattacharjee and Dr. Debraj Deb, were felicitated.
Besides, the topper of the departmental were also felicitated during the programme.
Under the MONDRA Fellowship for Women’s Education, two women students received financial assistance towards their academic fees, which aimed at supporting students from economically weaker and single-parent backgrounds.
Alongside academic discussions, Synapse 2025 formally welcomed first-semester students and bid farewell to outgoing batches. Cultural performances and interactive sessions added an informal and celebratory tone, positioning the conclave as both an academic forum and a community-building initiative.
