Alumni Masscomm UITM objects to faculty merger
05 Oct 2022 12:54pm
Alumni Masscomm UiTM hoped to discuss with UiTM, together with stakeholders and representatives from various organisations in the industry, on the move. - Photo: Sinar Archive
Alumni Masscomm UITM, in a statement today, said they would have welcomed a dialogue with the university before the decision was made.
According to its president, Basree Rakijan, it would have led to a better understanding of the need to preserve the image and branding of the five-decade-old faculty.
He said the merge would dilute the fundamental teachings of mass communication in providing vital information to the masses.
"Students of mass communication must be trained in skills practiced through mediums such as newspapers, magazines, radio, television, film, social media and the internet.
"These platforms require thinking and analytical skills, creativity and expertise in content creation. If at all, subjects that should be given emphasis are those related to social sciences and humanities among others,” he said.
He said the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies had produced graduates who had proven themselves by becoming industry leaders in the fields of printing, broadcasting, advertising, public relations, film production and social media.
"In an environment where misinformation is rampant, it is imperative to equip students to become competent communicators. While computer studies and informatics are beneficial, these technical subjects are just enablers to content creation. Moreover, in recent years, media practitioners have embraced their use,” he added.
He said the Alumni Masscomm UiTM hoped to discuss with UiTM, together with stakeholders and representatives from various organisations in the industry, on the move.
The merger was announced by UiTM’s vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Roziah Mohd Janor at the faculty’s 50th anniversary celebration recently as part of the university’s restructuring and cost-cutting exercise.
The new set-up will be known as Kolej Pengkomputeran, Informatik dan Media. - BERNAMA
