Media in rebuilding: Role & impact of journalists on society

Rev Dr Wati Aier. (Morung Photo)

Rev Dr Wati Aier. (Morung Photo)

Morung Express News
Dimapur | January 27

The role of the media in creating and developing narratives that accurately correspond to the society it represents, was highlighted during an interactive session organized by The Morung Express at Cafe Leon, Dimapur on January 26. 

Using a dialogical approach, Founding Principal of Oriental Theological Seminary (OTS) and Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) Convenor, Rev Dr Wati Aier dwelt on how journalists can explore, imagine and create possibilities to effect positive changes in the society, especially in the Naga context. 

Dr Wati noted that many commentaries about the Naga society in general, are written by people outside the Naga context contrary to existing realities. By not reflecting the actual situation, it creates room for misgivings. In this regard, he opined that the responsibility lies with the local media to create authentic narratives that reflect the society.

For this to happen, Dr Wati laid emphasis on the importance for each individual journalist to develop a genuine understanding of their power to influence public perceptions, and at the same time conscientiously bear the responsibility to tell the truth and ensure that people’s voices are heard.

While news articles often bear a single journalist’s byline, Dr Wati observed that the process requires significant collaboration among individuals that make up a team. Stating that journalism is teamwork conducted by a large group of professionals, he stressed on the importance of team building and how such collectives can bring together vastly different ideas and solutions. The coming together of such diverse ideas, he said, is essential to effect changes in the society in the long run.

Recalling how the local media in Nagaland had to adapt to the pandemic situation and found its feet in disseminating information through various digital mediums, he further said that the role of the print media has been accentuated by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr Wati encouraged journalists to accept the significance of their profession and be mindful of how they not only disseminate information but also influence public perceptions and discourse on several complex issues.

Society is moving forward in many ways and the media has the responsibility to maneuver the growth in a positive direction through conscientious and responsible reportage, he added.