The End of an Inspiring Journey: Farewell, COMMITS
At the end of last month, the Dean, Dr K Sai Prasad , announced the end of COMMITS [short for Convergence of Media, Multimedia and Information Technology] from the academic year 2024. A tough decision, driven by various challenges, yet one that reminds us of the incredible journey we've shared. As I reflect on the closure of COMMITS after an inspiring 23-year journey, my heart is filled with gratitude, and a keen sense of personal enrichment.
COMMITS was not just a cradle of education but a melting pot of innovation, creativity, and collaboration. The unique model – comprising a few permanent staff, a vast pool of experienced adjunct faculty from the industry, a diverse body of students, and hands-on learning – set it apart. It brought a fresh and invigorating perspective to the field of post-graduate education.
Having taught Corporate Communications at COMMITS for six to eight weeks every year for nearly 17 years, I didn't just impart knowledge; I gained immensely. It kept me abreast of new developments in the field of Corporate Communications. I learned from energetic and aspiring young minds and, from those [fortunately very few] who slept in my class – I needed to up my game! I gained insights into their dreams and perspectives in the unfolding context of the field of corporate communications in modern India.
Over the years, I witnessed the evolution of expectations and the widening of the generation gap. One day, after venting my displeasure over a class, I found comfort and perspective in a shared cup of tea with Sai Prasad. Gently, he guided my attention to a wall decorated with photographs of successful alumni, now employed with leading companies in media, public relations, and advertising. With wisdom in his eyes, he remarked, "They couldn't have been all that bad considering where they are working now." Those words struck me profoundly. It was COMMITS that had been the bridge between these students—most of whom did not come from mass communication backgrounds—and the industry where they found their calling.
In that simple yet profound moment, Sai encapsulated the true essence of COMMITS: the nurturing of potential, a willingness to embrace change, and a steadfast belief in the power of education to mold the future. The bridge that COMMITS built between raw talent and industry remains a testament to its vision and excellence.
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Yet, the journey of COMMITS faced an unprecedented challenge with the onset of the global pandemic. Like many institutions, they found themselves at crossroads, forced to adapt to a digital model almost overnight. The impact was further felt with more colleges in Bangalore opening media courses. The unique teaching methodology, so deeply rooted in personal interaction, collaboration, and hands-on learning, was difficult to translate into the virtual environment. COMMITS was unable to monetize the new model and, in my opinion, this disconnect dealt a significant blow to the institution. .
While COMMITS will cease to exist in its physical form, its spirit and legacy will endure. Thank you, COMMITS, for nurturing minds, inspiring hearts, and keeping us connected to the pulse of a dynamic world. Thank you for being one of the first to experiment with a new model of education. You've been more than an institution; you've been a guide, an inspiration, and a dear friend.
Farewell, dear friend. Your spirit will continue to inspire.
Independent Content Consultant
1yI'm from the second batch and for me a COMMITS farewell is incomplete without mentioning Ranita Hirji who held the institute together in its infancy when it seemed like it wouldn't survive another month. And Thummala Sir who instilled a love of cinema in all of us. From Tavarekere to HSR to Hennur it's been quite a journey. Sadly all good things must come to an end.
Assistant Professor at IIHM,Kolkata Research Scholar in English Literature, PhD in Mass Communication, M.A ENGLISH,M.A Audio -Visual Communication.
1yThank you for all the knowledge and wonderful experience Dr K Sai Prasad Commits - Institute of Journalism and Mass Communication
Field Marketing Group Director - EMEAI at Cadence Design Systems
1ySad to know that COMMITS is closing.
Head - PR & Corporate Communications @ Arya.ag | Strategic Initiatives, Media Relations
1yThank you Peter Yorke for putting our thoughts and emotions into words. We could not have said it better! The love and compassion I have received through my journey - from one side of the desk as a student to the other as faculty is irreplaceable. It has been an honour. Gratitude, always!
Building Ulta Pulta| Storyteller | Redefining kids sleepwear|
1yOh dear this is sad news. I've spent a few hours taking sessions on Influencer relations at COMMITS and like you rightly pointed, i learnt so much from these interactions with young talented students, sharing their new and aspiring perspectives. Goodbye Commits - Institute of Journalism and Mass Communication and thank you Dr K Sai Prasad for the great opportunity to demonstrate my expertise and to add value to the learning curve of all the students i have interacted with.