MAX – Media-Academia eXchange is a structured Industry-Academia Connect Talk Series conceptualized by the Department of Media Studies, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), with the objective of fostering critical engagement between emerging media scholars and experienced industry practitioners. In light of the ongoing transformations across the Indian and global media sectors—characterized by technological convergence, digital content proliferation, ethical dilemmas, and audience fragmentation—MAX serves as a platform for contextual academic inquiry, reflective dialogue, and knowledge co-construction. It enables students to critically examine contemporary media practices while enhancing their professional readiness through direct exposure to evolving newsroom dynamics, strategic communication models, and creative production ecosystems.
Anchored in the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and international benchmarks in media education, MAX redefines classroom learning by integrating real-world perspectives into academic discourse. Each session features curated talks, case-based analyses, and interactive conversations led by industry experts—ranging from journalists and filmmakers to policy analysts and digital innovators—thus offering students a nuanced understanding of media trends and transitions. Beyond lectures, MAX aims to create long-term academic-industry collaborations, inspire student-led research, and nurture ethical, critically aware, and globally competent media professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the contemporary communication landscape.
Industry-Academia Connect Talk Series 2
Campus to Credibility: A Guiding Session for Aspiring Media Professionals
Date: 16 July 2025
The Department of Media Studies at Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), as part of the MAX - Industry-Academia Connect Talk Series, hosted an Expert-Led Session titled "Campus to Credibility: Building an Image for a Career" on July 16, 2025. Ms. Manasi KG, Founding Partner of Narrate India, was the session's featured speaker.
This instructive lecture aimed to help aspiring media professionals make the move from university to career with confidence, clarity, and credibility. Ms. Manasi discussed the critical components of personal branding, the value of continuous storytelling, and the need of keeping a professional identity in today's changing media ecosystem.
The speaker addressed typical anxieties and obstacles for young workers with a mix of practical advice and personal experiences. She encouraged students to approach their work with a growth mentality and to actively construct their professional image.
The interactive element of the session encouraged true participation between students and the speaker. The Q & A segment was well-attended, with students receiving personalized insights and career advice geared to the media industry's changing needs.
Students from the third semester of the MA Journalism and Mass Communication program, as well as department faculty members, attended the session. It was extensively praised for its relevance, profundity, and motivational value, effectively bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world media business standards.
This event demonstrates the Department's continued commitment to developing industry-ready professionals through experiential learning and expert engagement.
Academia Connect Talk Series 1
Talk with Political Editor Bansy Kalappa
Date: 14 July 2025
MAX – Media-Academia eXchange is a structured Industry-Academia Connect Talk Series
The Department of Media Studies, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), instated the academic year 2025–2026 with the first session of the Media-Academia Exchange: Industry-Academic Connect Talk Series. The guest speaker for the day was Mr. Bansy Kalappa, Political Editor, The New Indian Express. Mr. Kalappa, an accomplished journalist with experience at Times of India, News9, and News H & H, shared insights from his extensive career in political and crime reporting. He highlighted the crucial role of journalists, stating, “You get to sit at the ringside and watch the development,” while stressing the need for integrity, courage, and responsibility in the field.
He also addressed critical issues such as journalist safety, media ethics, and the thin line between truth-telling and sensationalism. Urging students to use journalism as a tool for positive change, he remarked, “It is the truth that sets us free.”
The session concluded with an engaging Q & A, offering students a valuable opportunity to interact with a seasoned media professional. Also present were Mr. Aby Augustine, Coordinator, and Prof. Abraham, the event organizers. The talk proved to be an inspiring and enriching experience for all participants.