One Day Workshop on 'Expressions of Creativity in 21st Century' organised at JU
Aug 03, 2023
JAMMU: Department of Journalism and Media Studies in collaboration with the Department of English, University of Jammu Thursday organized a day long workshop on "Expression of Creativity in 21st Century", wherein Dr. Arpan Yagnik, acclaimed TEDx speaker and Associate Professor, Pennsylvania State University, USA was the resource person.
The proceedings of the workshop were declared open by Prof Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor JU as he welcomed the resource person in the University. He expressed appreciation for the organisers who had taken a very topical theme for the workshop.
"Dr Yagnik with his international exposure and expertise in the teaching of creativity would be able to expand the mental horizon of our students," he said.
He further expressed hope that this would also be a value addition to the innovative Design Your Degree recently launched by the University.
The inaugural session was presided by Rector Bhaderwah Campus, Dean Faculty of Mathematical Sciences and Registrar, University of Jammu Prof Rahul Gupta who expressed how creativity is the buzz word today and said that such workshops should be organised frequently to ensure that the University produces future ready students.
Others present on the occasion included Prof Sucheta Pathania, Dean Faculty of Arts and Head, Department of English, Prof Shyam Narayan Lal, founder head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, Prof Monika Sethi, Associate Professor, Department of English and Dr Garima Gupta, Head, Department of Journalism and Media Studies.
The workshop aimed to explore and celebrate the diverse forms of creativity that are emerging in the modern era.
The workshop witnessed a vibrant turnout of students, faculty and scholars from various fields of study.
The event commenced with an inaugural address by the Registrar, Prof Rahul Gupta, who highlighted the significance of creativity in shaping a progressive society and emphasized the need to embrace new modes of artistic and intellectual expressions.
"Nurturing creativity and promoting diverse forms of expression is essential in preparing individuals for the challenges and opportunities of the future," Prof Rahul Gupta said and added this workshop represents a unique platform to engage in meaningful conversations and exchange ideas on the evolving nature of creative expression.
While addressing the participants, Prof Shyam Narayan Lal said that the world around is rapidly changing, and creativity is now more vital than ever.
"Through this workshop, we seek to encourage our participants to embrace new forms of artistic expression and adapt to the technological advancements that are reshaping the creative landscape," he shared.
Dean Faculty of Arts and Head, Department of English, Prof Sucheta Pathania said that Creativity lies at the heart of human progress, and in the 21st century, it has taken on new dimensions, fuelled by technology and cultural dynamism.
"This workshop has allowed us to examine how creative expression has evolved, embracing interdisciplinary collaborations, and leveraging progressive ways to communicate ideas more effectively," she said.
Head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, Dr Garima Gupta said that University of Jammu has always emphasized the significance of the arts and creativity as essential components of holistic education.
"This workshop exemplifies our mandate to providing an environment where students can not only excel academically but also nurture their imaginative abilities and think critically about the world around them," she said and added that this event has been an inspiring and enlightening experience for all participants, and it reflects commitment of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies to foster a culture of creativity and innovation.
She highlighted the importance of creativity in media and journalism and emphasized the need for continuous exploration in this vibrant field. She further expressed her gratitude to the Department of English for their collaboration in making the workshop a grand success.
Earlier, Dr Arpan Yagnik conducted the workshop in two different sessions. The first one was about sensitization, which included discussion about ‘Alien, Creative Freedom, Silo of Safety and Confines of Conformity' related to creativity. He also apprised participants about the origin of creativity and how it impacts individual reflection.
The second session of the workshop extended beyond technical skills. Participants were apprised about how to cultivate a creative mindset, allowing them to approach problems with innovative solutions and view the world through a different lens. Students were also told about the creative aerobics.
Throughout the event, participants engaged in interactive sessions, hands-on activities, and group discussions, which encouraged them to think outside the box and explore uncharted territories of creativity. Various breakout sessions focused on techniques to overcome creative blocks, enhancing imagination, and fostering a culture of innovation.
Karman Singh, Student of Journalism and Media Studies compeered the event, whereas Dr. Pardeep Singh, Lecturer, Department of Journalism and Media Studies introduced the resource person by reading his brief profile. The workshop concluded with the vote of thanks by Dr Garima Gupta, Head, Department of Journalism and Media Studies.
Dr. Ravia Gupta, Kumerjit Chajgotra from the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, Dr Amit Kumar, Dr Pallavi Gupta and Dr Divya Sharma from the department of English and students from different departments participated in the event.
