IIMC, IIMCAA Must Join Hands to Upskill Journalists: Prof. Anand Pradhan

Bhubaneswar: The Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) and its alumni body, the IIMC Alumni Association (IIMCAA), should collaborate more closely to enhance the professional skills of journalists, said Prof. Anand Pradhan, Regional Director of IIMC Dhenkanal, on Saturday.

Addressing Connection 2025—the annual alumni meet of the IIMC Odisha Chapter held in Bhubaneswar—Prof. Pradhan emphasized the need for stronger coordination between the Central Committee and regional chapters of the alumni association to uphold and build upon the institute’s rich legacy. He also called upon former students to actively take part in the upcoming silver jubilee celebrations of the Odia Journalism course, which completes 25 years in 2025.

The meet brought together nearly 130 alumni, representing batches from 1993 to 2025. The gathering was a nostalgic affair, filled with heartfelt memories and renewed friendships.

The event was attended by several distinguished guests including former IIMC Director UmaKant Mishra, Prof. Biraj Swain of National Law University, and senior alumni members such as Prabhat Upadhyay, Ramesh Chandra, Rajesh Kumar, Neeraj Bajpayee, Prabhat Pandey, Ritesh Verma, Animesh Biswas, and Atul Gupta. Key office bearers of the Odisha Chapter—President Sandeep Sethi, Vice President Sangeeta Agrawal, and Byomakesh Biswal—were present along with notable alumni from the state, including Jajati Karan and Ashok Pradhan.

Speakers unanimously echoed the sentiment that IIMC is not merely an academic institution but an enduring emotional anchor and a source of inspiration. They underlined that the strength of IIMCAA lies in unity, active collaboration, and the collective achievements of its members, which continue to bolster IIMC’s reputation as one of the premier media schools in India.

In his welcome address, Odisha Chapter President Sandeep Sethi urged the Central Committee to extend stronger support to the regional chapters, especially in organizing activities and outreach. He appealed to alumni to come together in efforts to further elevate the institution’s stature.

IIMC Dhenkanal, known for its serene setting and academic excellence, continues to attract students from across the country. Preserving its legacy remains a shared commitment among its alumni.

A highlight of the event was the felicitation of members of the Silver Jubilee batch of IIMC Dhenkanal. The gathering also honoured journalist Satya Sundar Barik, a recent recipient of the prestigious Ramnath Goenka Award. Adding a fun element to the celebrations, a lucky draw was held with three winners receiving prizes from the dignitaries.