Eminent Journalist Shyam Bhatia addresses School of Communication Studies students at Orientation Week

Chandigarh, August 18, 2025: “A journalist is only as good as their last story” said eminent journalist Shyam Bhatia while delivering the key note address at the inaugural session of the week long orientation programme of School of Communication Studies (SCS) today. 
Shyam Bhatia’s career spans several decades as a writer, foreign correspondent, and war reporter. Having reported from conflict zones across the Middle East, Afghanistan, and Africa, and held senior editorial roles with leading international publications, Bhatia has also authored several widely respected books on geopolitics and South Asian politics. His fearless reporting has earned him global recognition, including the Foreign Reporter of the Year Award (1993).
In his address, Bhatia shared the challenges he faced during his fieldwork in the Middle East, remarking that “truth has a strange power of resurfacing.” He emphasised the importance of asking tough questions, stating that journalists must never stop questioning, and their questions should make those in power uncomfortable. Stressing on the discipline of the profession, he underscored the value of deadlines in shaping credibility. Concluding his talk, he encouraged budding journalists to “restore clarity piece by piece, sentence by sentence.”
Earlier, speaking about the Orientation, Dr. Bhavneet Bhatti, Chairperson, SCS, said, “The orientation week has been specially planned keeping in mind the media students. The whole week will see industry experts and resource persons from varied fields sharing insights that will help media students develop an orientation towards the course and Panjab University and it is our proud privilege to host Mr. Shyam Bhatia for the inaugural session.”
A special edition of Student Reporter, the in-house publication of SCS, was presented to Bhatia on the occasion. The edition was especially designed by Dhruv Singhal, a second-year MA student, marking a proud moment for the department as student creativity met professional excellence. 
In the afternoon, students participated in a guided university tour to explore campus landmarks, student support centers, the A.C. Joshi Library, hostels, and cultural hubs.
Ice-breaking activities were also held to help new entrants connect with peers and familiarise themselves with their surroundings.
The Orientation Week promises to blend academic guidance with cultural immersion, ensuring that new students feel welcomed, informed, and inspired as they step into the world of media studies at Panjab University.