Latest news with #SchoolofCommunication
New Straits Times
2 days ago
- Science
- New Straits Times
USM's Communication programme ranked among Asia's finest
GEORGE TOWN: Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continues to make strides in the field of communication and media, with its Communication programme ranked among the best in the EduRank 2025 listings. This accomplishment reaffirms USM's standing not only in science and technology but also in the social sciences and humanities. It reflects the university's belief that social sciences are not simply complementary to the sciences, but are vital drivers of societal progress — shaping discourse, influencing perception, and guiding action both nationally and globally. According to the latest EduRank results: - Broadcast Journalism: No. 1 in Malaysia, No. 10 in Asia - Media Studies: No. 2 in Malaysia, No. 30 in Asia - Radio and Television Broadcasting: No. 4 in Malaysia, No. 73 in Asia - Communication and Public Relations: No. 5 in Malaysia, No. 16 in Asia - Journalism and Digital Media: No. 6 in Malaysia, No. 59 in Asia EduRank is an independent global university ranking system that assesses over 14,000 institutions across 183 countries. It evaluates universities based on three main indicators: academic performance, non-academic prominence, and alumni achievements. USM vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Seri Ir Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed expressed pride in the achievement, attributing it to the dedication of the university's academic and administrative staff, students, alumni, and strategic industry partners. "This recognition highlights that USM is not only producing world-class scientists and researchers but also shaping future leaders in communication and media," he said. School of Communication dean Associate Professor Dr Bahiyah Omar said the success was the result of sustained commitment, teamwork and strategic collaboration. "This recognition will serve as a catalyst to further strengthen our academic programmes and expand research networks and global partnerships," she said. Journalism graduate Nur Alwani Zafirah Khairul, who completed her studies in 2021 and now works as an executive journalist at Kosmo!, also shared her pride in USM's achievement. "USM and the School of Communication instilled in me the skills and professional values I carry today. It provided the foundation for my career in journalism," she said.
The Sun
22-07-2025
- General
- The Sun
‘Offer engaging news to draw youths'
PETALING JAYA: As younger generations scroll past headlines in favour of snappy social media updates, an academic has called on traditional news outlets to rethink how they could connect with youths. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) School of Communication faculty member Dr Chai Ming Hock said youth around the world are increasingly turning to social media for news, often preferring bite-size content over lengthy, in-depth articles. 'Social media platforms, with their rapid speed and interactive features, have proven to be a more attractive option for the youth, who tend to have shorter attention spans,' he said. He pointed to the education system as a contributing factor to the dwindling interest in in-depth news consumption, partly blaming it for the current situation. 'Children are taught to accept information without asking many questions. The result is a generation that doesn't necessarily engage with news on a deeper level,' he noted. To bridge this gap, Chai suggested that traditional news outlets should not attempt to compete with social media on its own terms such as chasing after clickbaits or viral trends. Instead, the former journalist said mainstream media should focus on providing in-depth analyses and investigative journalism that go beyond the surface level of events. 'Why would I pay for information that I can easily get for free on social media? Traditional media should differentiate itself by offering quality commentary and exclusive reports on serious issues, such as the performance of elected representatives.' However, he acknowledged the youth's preference for social media and recommended that traditional media outlets leverage these platforms to engage with younger audiences. 'Use social media to highlight news stories that matter. By reaching young people, traditional media can maintain a connection and attract their attention.' Despite that, news outlets should not be focused on competing with social media's pace or sensationalism, he added. 'Social media is perfect for quick consumption but traditional media has the opportunity to go deeper, offering context and analyses that are simply not possible in short, bite-size content,' he said. Chai also pointed out that traditional media must drop its arrogance and make more effort to engage with its readers. He recounted his own experience with a journalist from an English-language newspaper, whose response to an inquiry was dismissive: 'I have no time to entertain someone like you'. In another instance, a local Malay-language newspaper used the incorrect spelling of 'George Town' and defended it as a matter of 'house style'. Chia said this illustrates a broader issue of arrogance in some parts of the media industry. 'When readers take the time to write in with their concerns or corrections, it's a sign that they care about the publication. Media must be open to feedback and respond constructively.' He added that traditional media should create more reader-engaging initiatives such as talk shows, podcasts and forums for interactive discussions, which could be used to gather insights and feedback from readers while offering solutions to pressing social issues. 'Media outlets also need to invest in their journalists and encourage them to produce exclusive, investigative pieces that offer valuable insights to the public. This is where traditional media can truly excel.' He said while social media may provide the speed and accessibility that younger readers crave, traditional media outlets can continue to attract and engage readers by offering comprehensive analyses, engaging content and, most importantly, a commitment to respecting and engaging with their audience. 'Ultimately, the key to surviving in the digital age is not about competing with social media. It's about offering something that social media can't – which is in-depth, trustworthy journalism.'
Mint
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Mint
Watch: Steve Carell surprises graduates with dance break during Northwestern University event
Northwestern University's 167th commencement ceremony turned unexpectedly joyous on June 15, when actor and comedian Steve Carell took the stage and brought more than just advice—he brought a dance party. Addressing a crowd of over 2,500 graduates at Chicago's United Centre, Carell—best known for playing Michael Scott in The Office—infused his speech with wit, sincerity, and an impromptu moment of celebration. After receiving an honorary degree from the university, he declared mid-address, 'It is time now to follow me in the mid-commencement address dance break,' before breaking into a groove as The Ting Tings' That's Not My Name echoed through the hall. Carell danced alongside students and School of Communication Dean E. Patrick Johnson, eventually leaping off stage to join graduates on the floor. 'That was as invigorating as it was disturbing,' he quipped, gasping for air after the minute-long break. 'Wow, am I out of shape?' The actor used the moment not just for laughs but to underscore a deeper message. Blending comedy with introspection, he urged graduates to lead with empathy and resilience. 'Kindness isn't a weakness—it's a very potent strength,' he said. 'Take care of one another. Remember to laugh when you have the opportunity, and cry when necessary. And as evidenced before, just dance sometimes.' Carell also touched on ambition and self-doubt, encouraging students to convert jealousy into admiration and use it as a source of motivation. In classic comedic fashion, he added a final bit of advice: 'Now is the perfect time to exploit your parents' guilt… they might even let you live in the basement for an extra six months.' The event held personal significance for Carell—his daughter Annie graduated from the School of Communication in 2023, and his son Johnny is part of the class of 2026. His address left the audience not only laughing, but also reflecting, and dancing, a fitting send-off for a new generation stepping into the world.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Plotline hosting 10th annual Student Film Showcase
The Springfield based nonprofit Plotline is hosting its 'Student Film Showcase' for the 10th year next Saturday, May 31st. The event will take place at the Historic Fox Theatre and is open to the public. Tickets are on sale for $10 and $5 for children 12 and younger. A celebration of Plotline's students ages 10–17, the event will feature a red-carpet entrance followed by a screening of films produced by Plotline students and suitable for all ages. Each student will receive a certificate and two awards, sponsored by Missouri State University's School of Communication and the History Museum on the Square, will be presented. Snacks and refreshments will be available for purchase. Tickets are available online at or at the event. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Associated Press
07-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
HKBU Masters Information Day x i-ConNet Career Expo 2025 Concluded
A transdisciplinary collaboration between the School of Business and the School of Communication empowered students to shape a better future HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 7 April 2025 - The HKBU Masters Information Day x i-ConNet Career Expo 2025, jointly organized by the School of Business and the School of Communication at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU), concluded today. The event, themed 'i-Explore, i-ConNet, i-Shine,' served as a vibrant platform for 2,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students to engage with nearly 100 leading employers, facilitating connections to internship and job opportunities. HKBU Masters Information Day x i-ConNet Career Expo 2025 was successfully held on April 7, 2025, attended by nearly 100 leading employers in Hong Kong and mainland China and 2,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students. Insights Enlightened at Career Expo: Hong Kong and China Employers Sought Human-AI Collaborations Amid the Era of Artificial Intelligence Nearly 12% of the featured employers at the Career Expo were from mainland China, offering positions both in Hong Kong and the mainland, opening pathways to exciting and diverse career prospects for students. With soft skills continuing to rise in importance in the era of artificial intelligence, the employers from both territories expressed high demand for talents possessing critical thinking, creativity, strategic minds, emotional intelligence and resilience- strengths that technology cannot easily replicate. An emerging trend of collaboration between AI and humans is reshaping how the recruitment process works globally. A highlight at the Career Expo was the pioneering AI mock job interview, supporting three languages — Cantonese, English and Putonghua, a first for any Hong Kong university. Run by the Career Centre, this innovative experience simulated a realistic 20-minute interview scenario, with an AI interviewer dynamically generating questions in real-time based on the interviewees' different responses. Participants received an AI-generated report detailing their strengths and areas for improvement, effectively boosting their confidence and preparing them for real-world interviews. Beyond the AI mock job interview, participants also benefited from personalised career support from a dedicated CV clinic and networking opportunities with employers from diverse sectors aided their future career planning. Ms Marina WATT, Vice President of the Hong Kong Public Relations Professionals' Association, delivered an insightful keynote theming around 'Reimagining the Future of PR'. In the talk, Professor Regina CHEN, Head of the Department of Communication Studies under the School of Communication, also emphasised 'messaging for impact' as a fundamental aspect of the public relations profession. She stated, 'At HKBU, our Public Relations curriculum is designed to empower future professionals to harness the power of communication, enabling them to create meaningful impacts for individuals, organisations, and society, especially in an era filled with challenges and opportunities. Achieving this goal is no easy task. Therefore, the curriculum strikes a balance between theory and practice, as well as human insights and technologies.' Transdisciplinary Collaboration at Career Expo Realized Both Schools' Commitment to Academic Excellence and Career Relevance Professor ZHANG Han, Chair Professor and Dean of the School of Business at HKBU, concluded that the Career Expo connected academic excellence with industry impact, 'In an AI-disrupted world, the most valuable professionals won't just adapt to change — they'll drive it. We cultivate strategic thinkers who innovate across boundaries in ESG, Web3, and sustainable finance. Employers need visionaries who connect technology, business, and human impact — precisely what the School of Business nurtures.' Professor ZHONG Bu, Dean of the School of Communication at HKBU, also stressed the importance of nurturing talent who can shine in the era of AI, 'Our School's AI Media Centre aims to set global standards in AI-driven media research and to produce practical AI-powered solutions for societal benefit.' He also described the Career Expo as the latest example of the transdisciplinary collaboration between both Schools, 'The world today faces unprecedented complexity, and that the challenges ahead demand collaborative, interdisciplinary solutions. By integrating our strengths from both Schools, we empower students with a holistic skillset, enabling them to thrive regardless of industries and roles.' In alignment with HKBU's commitment to empowering students to shape a better future, the academic programmes of both Schools are designed to meet society's pressing needs. The event featured Master's Programmes admission talks and information booths, where those planning to pursue further studies accessed information on the 15 Master's Programmes available through both Schools. Provided by the School of Business, the Master of Science in Finance (FinTech and Financial Analytics) trains AI-fluent leaders who bridge finance and cutting-edge technology. The Master of Science in Corporate Governance and Compliance integrates AI governance, preparing future directors for the ethical and strategic complexities of digital disruption. For those drawn to the creative economy, the Master of Science in Marketing for the Creative Economy explores innovative strategies within the new economy. Programmes such as the Master of Science in AI and Digital Media and the Master of Social Sciences in Media Management, offered by the School of Communication, exemplify the School's interdisciplinary focus, merging cutting-edge technology with strategic communication and media expertise. Such programmes equip its graduates with the essential skills demanded by the job market and position them at the forefront of their #HKBU The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
