Media Workshop in Bhubaneswar Highlights Role in Promoting Positive Parenting and Masculinity

Bhubaneswar: A media orientation on “The Role of Media in Promoting Positive Parenting and Positive Masculinity” was held in Bhubaneswar today, bringing together journalists, media students, and professionals from across Odisha. The workshop was jointly organized by UNICEF and the Odisha Women in Media (OWM) to enhance the media’s capacity to shape narratives around healthier norms in parenting and masculinity.

Sugata Roy, Social and Behaviour Change Specialist, UNICEF Odisha, emphasized the transformative power of media in shaping society. “When the media change its narratives on positive parenting and masculinity, society changes with it. One positive story can influence a million homes,” he said, urging media professionals to use their platforms responsibly.

Priya Abraham, core group member of OWM, highlighted the media’s role in challenging stereotypes and portraying balanced images of men and fathers. “By showing men as respectful caregivers, we help society redefine strength and care. Journalists must consciously avoid sensationalism and harmful gender portrayals,” she said.

The workshop included interactive sessions covering positive parenting, non-violent and nurturing approaches, and positive masculinity, including emotional expression and shared caregiving. Participants also explored common media pitfalls such as stereotyping, victim-blaming, and sensational headlines, while discussing strategies for ethical and responsible reporting on child and gender-related issues.

The orientation saw participation from members of OWM, journalism students from KIIT School of Journalism and Mass Communication, and Birla Global University, fostering a collaborative space to strengthen media’s impact on social change.