Research

Submit Abstract — SJMCC 2026

State of Journalism, Media and Communication Conference

The School of Journalism and Media Studies (SOJAMS) at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) is hosting the inaugural State of Journalism, Media and Communication Conference (SJMCC 2026) on 15–16 July 2026. This two-day conference provides a dynamic platform for scholars, researchers, and industry experts to present cutting-edge research, discuss emerging issues, and foster networking within the fields of journalism, media, and communication.

We cordially invite academics, researchers, media practitioners, communication educators, content creators, and policy stakeholders to contribute their work and participate in this inaugural conference.

Key Objectives

  • Provide a platform for scholars and practitioners to present research and engage in critical discussions on emerging issues in journalism, media, and communication.
  • Explore pressing topics such as the impact of AI, misinformation, media ownership, and the role of journalism in development and democracy.
  • Facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange among academics, practitioners, and policymakers.
  • Generate insights and recommendations that advance journalism and media practice in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Conference Tracks & Sub-Tracks

a) AI, Media, Journalism, and Communication in the New Age
  • Algorithmic News Production and Automation
  • Generative AI and Content Creation
  • AI, Personalisation, and Audience Engagement
  • Ethics, Regulation, and Accountability in AI Media Systems
b) The Impact of Technology on Media and Democracy
  • Digital Platforms and Electoral Politics
  • Public Sphere Transformation in the Digital Age
  • Platform Governance and Democratic Accountability
  • Civic Engagement, Activism, and Hashtag Politics
c) Fact-Checking, Misinformation, and Disinformation
  • Ecosystems of Misinformation and Disinformation
  • Fact-Checking Models and Innovations
  • Audience Reception and Media Literacy
  • Platform Responsibility and Content Moderation
d) The Role of the Media in Development
  • Media and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
  • Community Media and Grassroots Communication
  • Development Communication and Behaviour Change
  • Media, Governance, and Accountability in Development
e) Media Ownership and Business Models in the Current Age
  • Platformisation and Revenue Models
  • Ownership Structures and Media Pluralism
  • Entrepreneurial Journalism and Startups
  • Public Interest Media and Funding Models
f) The State of Media, Journalism, and Communication Education
  • Curriculum Innovation in the Digital Era
  • Pedagogy and Experiential Learning
  • Skills Gaps and Employability in Media Industries
  • Decolonising Media Education
g) Global Perspectives on Media and Communication
  • Comparative Media Systems and Models
  • Transnational Media Flows and Cultural Exchange
  • Media Policy and Regulation Across Contexts
  • Diaspora Media and Identity Construction
h) Science, Risk, Health, and Environmental Journalism
  • Health Communication and Pandemic Reporting
  • Climate Change and Environmental Reporting
  • Science Communication and Public Understanding
  • Risk Communication and Crisis Reporting
i) Investigative Journalism, Anti-Corruption Reportage, and Processes
  • Methods and Tools in Investigative Journalism
  • Media, Corruption, and Accountability Systems
  • Safety, Ethics, and Legal Challenges
  • Collaborative and Cross-Border Investigations
j) Gender and the Media
  • Representation and Framing of Gender in Media Content
  • Gender Inequality in Media Industries
  • Digital Spaces, Gender, and Online Harassment
  • Feminist Media Practices and Alternative Narratives
k) Journalism History
  • Evolution of Journalism Practices and Norms
  • Colonial and Postcolonial Media Histories
  • Technological Shifts and Media Transformation
  • Historical Case Studies in Media and Society
l) Mass Communication and Society
  • Media Effects and Audience Studies
  • Media, Culture, and Identity Formation
  • Political Communication and Public Opinion
  • Digital Media, Social Change, and Everyday Life
m) Strategic Communication (Public Relations, Advertising, and Marketing Communication)
  • Public Relations, Corporate Communication, and Reputation Management
  • Advertising, Brand Communication, and Consumer Behaviour
  • Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) and Campaign Strategy
  • Digital and Social Media Marketing Communication
Abstract submissions are currently closed. Please contact Email Secretariat.