Online session on Sports Journalism in association with WINS

Department of Journalism and Mass Communication and Sports Board, IIS (deemed to be University) in collaboration with WINS (Australian Broadcasting Corporation Initiative) conducted a webinar on Online Sports Journalism Seminar for India-“Why NOW is the time to be a woman in news and sport”.
This seminar discussed India’s media landscape, as well as the challenges and opportunities of being a female sports journalist today.

The speakers of the event included Karen Shrosbery, WINS Program Manager, Rica Roy - NDTV 24x7 Sports Editor, Prarthana Hazarika, Prasar Bharti Sports Commentator, Smita Mishra, Sports Kreeda Editor, Dr. Shipra Mathur advisor, JMC, IIS deemed to be university who shared their experiences and specialisations in the field of sports journalism - the good, the bad, the day to day job, the extraordinary moments witnessed. They also talked about the opportunities that have been given to them and give advice on how you can pursue a similar career.

Karen Shrosbery discussed about WINS, that the overall goal of the program is to increase opportunities and challenges faced by women in sports journalism in the Indo-Pacific region. She also mentioned the data given by UNESCO, only 4% of sports media content is dedicated to women’s sport and only 12% of sports news is presented by women.

Rica Roy talked about the challenges faced during sports reporting and she also said that sports writer is equally important in sports journalism. One should write blog, a commentator must know important things about their sports.

Smita Mishra, said Women are shining with bright colours as gave example of recent UPSC result top 3 rank holder is women. If we talk about sports journalism one should be passion for sports, read newspaper regularly, one should know the basics and history of specific sports which he/she is covering.

Prarthana Hazarika, believed that every day is a learning day for her. As you face more challenges you become more confident. She also shares her working experience while covering Tokyo Olympics this year, that how remote reporting was very helpful for covering Olympics. Its true there is huge opportunity for youngster in sports media. PEFI is a huge name in promoting sports culture.

Dr. Piyush Jain, its high time to develop in the field of sports. New focused courses related to sports journalism should be commenced in government as well as private universities.

Dr. Shipra Mathur, talked about the rural youth engaging themselves in Khelo India in Rajasthan. She also apprised about a new course to be introduced by IIS University, that is, MA in Digital Media and Communication in the upcoming session.

Dr. Ruchi Goswami, coordinator of the event concluded with the vote of thanks.