Expressing concern over the discontinuation of the Journalism and Mass Communication (JMC) programme at GB Pant Memorial Government College, Rampur Bushahr, in Shimla district, students and their parents have urged the state government to reconsider the decision.
Residents of the region also demanded that career-oriented subjects such as JMC should be encouraged, especially for students from rural and tribal areas, to help them access quality education and better employment opportunities.
Students of the college said the programme was discontinued despite the availability of a qualified faculty member. “There is no government college in Kinnaur, Ani, Nirmand or Kumarsain areas that offers JMC as a subject. Rampur college has been serving as an important educational centre for students from across the region,” they said.
They added that the discontinuation of the programme had affected the higher education and career prospects of several students. “Students enrolled in the second and third years are still pursuing the course. The decision has created uncertainty over their academic future. When students are already enrolled and a faculty member is available, the reason for discontinuing the programme is difficult to understand,” they said.
Students highlighted that Journalism and Mass Communication is a significant career-oriented discipline in the digital age. “The programme provides skills in media, public relations, digital content creation, advertising, communication and also helps students prepare for various competitive examinations. Discontinuing it goes against the interests of the region’s youth,” they said.
They further pointed out that Rampur college remains the most accessible option for students from remote and tribal areas to pursue the subject. “If the programme remains discontinued, students may have to move to colleges in other districts or private institutions, which would increase financial pressure on families. Many students may lose the opportunity to pursue higher education in this field,” they said.
