PASIGHAT, Aug 17: The Department of Mass Communication, Arunachal Pradesh University, today organized an Orientation-cum-Induction Programme for its first-semester students at the APU’s Seminar Hall, Academic Block, welcoming the department's second batch since its establishment in August 2025.
HoD Dr Prem Taba said journalism rests on the three principles of truth, voice, and accountability, and urged them to be curious, honest, disciplined, and respectful in the field. He called upon students to tell the stories of Arunachal Pradesh and the Northeast — a region still underrepresented in national media — with the accuracy and depth that only insiders can bring.
Recalling its motto ‘Knowledge is Supreme Power’, he said APU's vision is to be a leading institution of excellence in knowledge, culture, and human development through research and education that contributes to the state's socio-economic growth.
Ashish Gupta, a Pasighat-based photographer and owner of Studio 911, was the expert speaker at the event. Sharing insights from his journey of building a full-scale photography studio from humble beginnings, he told students, “A photograph is merely the product; your professionalism is the actual business.”
He advised them not to wait for the perfect opportunity but to engage directly in the creative process, embrace mistakes, and build technical expertise. His presentation also explored entrepreneurship opportunities in photography, advertising agencies, and filmmaking.
Earlier, the programme opened with an ice-breaker session titled "The Question Jar," in which freshers shared perspectives on campus life, career aspirations, and cultural heritage, touching on local traditions such as Apatani Pikey Pila cuisine, integrated fish culture, and traditional Tiipe facial tattooing.
A short film titled ‘Paradox,’ produced and directed by third-semester students, was screened on the occasion, followed by a discussion with its director and writer, Meena Taku, a third-semester student.
A communication game curated by guest faculty Doli Ete was also organised for experiential learning, helping students understand the concept of message dilution.
Earlier, guest faculty Mitinam Siram encouraged active academic participation and discipline among the students.
Asstt Prof Dr Kombong Darang reminded students that consistent attendance and active participation, both inside and outside the classroom, are vital for their overall professional development.