The Faculty of Journalism at St. Xavier’s College, Maitighar, recently organized the 41st edition of its renowned "MediaTalk" series. The event, themed “Journalists vs. Content Creators: Complementing or Competing in Shaping Public Narratives,” brought together diplomats, veteran journalists, and digital creators to discuss the evolving information landscape in the age of Artificial Intelligence.
The program featured Her Excellency Dr. Danielle Meuwly, the Swiss Ambassador to Nepal, as the special guest. Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Dr. Meuwly highlighted the dual nature of modern technology. “AI can amplify both facts and fake news, making fact-checking essential, especially for young people,” she stated. She urged the students to embrace critical thinking, noting that their commitment to integrity and informed engagement is vital for the future of democracy.
The event transitioned into an expert panel discussion featuring prominent voices from the media industry. Umesh Chauhan, Group Editor at Himalaya TV and Onlinekhabar.com, observed a significant shift in audience behavior, noting that youth are increasingly gravitating toward short-form content over traditional, detailed reportage. He encouraged mass communication students to seek firsthand newsroom experience to truly understand the fundamental role journalists play in a democratic society.
Representing the digital creator community, content creator and cultural critic argued that content creators also function as watchdogs. He emphasized that by critically examining their own biases, creators can produce balanced, responsible, and impactful narratives that challenge the status quo.
Fr. Dr. Augustine Thomas, S.J., Principal of St. Xavier’s College, commended the faculty and students for the successful execution of the event. He remarked that the talk series was a testament to the competence and dedication of the "Xavierians" and their mentors, noting that the discussion effectively stimulated the audience's intellectual curiosity.
Concluding the session, Chun Bahadur Gurung, Faculty Coordinator of the MediaTalk series, reflected on the collaboration between different forms of media. He noted that the central challenge in the AI era is not about who shapes the narrative, but how journalists and content creators can responsibly complement each other. “Journalism remains a pillar of democracy when practiced in accordance with its core principles,” Gurung added.
The 41st MediaTalk series provided a vital platform for students to engage with industry leaders, fostering a deeper understanding of the responsibilities that come with shaping public discourse in a digitally-driven world.
