Speakers highlight role of science communication in bridging gap between research and society
Anantnag, October 08: The Department of Media Studies, of SHMM Government Degree College Anantnag, in collaboration with Kashmir Convener, Wednesday organised a guest lecture on “Science Communication and Journalism” by Rayies Altaf, Science Communication Specialist and Public Relations Officer at the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi.
An official Spokesperson said Rayies Altaf, who has an academic and professional background in Science Policy Studies and Science Communication, spoke about the growing importance of science communication in contemporary times.
Highlighting the ever-increasing demand for science communication amid climate change, weather vagaries, and emerging scientific technologies, he stressed that effective science communication is vital in bridging the gap between researchers, policymakers, and the public.
He also shared information on a range of national and international fellowship opportunities available for students in the fields of Science, Technology & Society (STS) Studies and Science Communication.
Mr Altaf said Science Communication and Journalism is an emerging field that plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between scientific research and society. “Unfortunately, exposure to this field is very limited in Kashmir particularly among journalism students,” he said and urged students to explore the scope and significance of science communication, besides informing them about the potential career pathways.
Speaking on the occasion Head of the Department of Media Studies, Imran Muzafar, said in this growing interdisciplinary domain, there is a growing demand in the mainstream media for Science Journalism and Communication Professionals.
Encouraging students to take interest in science reporting, he said, “Science journalism is not just about technical details—it’s about telling human stories behind scientific ideas and making research meaningful for society.”
He thanked Principal of the College Prof.(Dr.) Mushtaq Ahmad Malik for his support in organising such innovative events for the benefit of the students. He also thanked Kashmir Convener for organising such an insightful session for students and hoped for further collaborations.
Consulting Editor of Kashmir Convener, Zahid Maqbool said that journalism plays a vital role in connecting people with knowledge, and science communication is one of its most meaningful forms.
He thanked the Principal and the Department of Media Studies for hosting the event and said that Kashmir Convener under the leadership of Editor-in-Chief Sheikh Saleem has always believed in promoting journalism that bridges the gap between the public and scientific understanding.
“Science shapes our world in countless ways, but explaining it in simple and relatable language remains a challenge. That’s where science journalism becomes so important,” he noted.
An interactive session was also held after the presentation by the guest speaker wherein student posed range of questions with regard to the science communication and journalism and the science policies.
The event concluded with an overall wrap-up by Syed Adil, Lecturer, Department of Media Studies, who appreciated the speakers and participants for their valuable contributions and active involvement in the discussion.
