/ Home
/ Nepal

My Journey from Nepal to UMCSAJ: A Transformative Experience by Jagdishor Pandey

Back
Testimony Kathamndu, Nepal - 4th May 2020


My journey at the UNESCO Madanjeet Centre for South Asian Journalism (UMCSAJ) at the Asian College of Journalism (ACJ) during 2017–2018 remains one of the defining experiences of my professional life.

Before joining UMCSAJ, I was working as a journalist at Kantipur National Daily, Nepal's largest newspaper. While I had already gained valuable newsroom experience, studying at ACJ opened my eyes to journalism from a broader South Asian and global perspective.

For ten months, Chennai became my second home. Inside the classroom, I deepened my understanding of politics, international relations, media ethics, and digital journalism under the guidance of some of India's most respected journalists and media educators. Their mentorship encouraged us to question, analyse, and report with integrity.

Outside the classroom, the learning never stopped. My classmates came from different regions of India and across South Asia, bringing diverse cultures, ideas, and experiences. Those conversations, friendships, and exchanges enriched me just as much as the academic programme itself. They taught me that journalism is strengthened when we listen to different voices and understand different perspectives.

The education and values I gained at ACJ continue to shape my work as a journalist in Nepal. More than professional skills, ACJ instilled in me the importance of ethical reporting, critical thinking, and public service—qualities that are essential for a free and responsible press.

On World Press Freedom Day, I proudly remember my alma mater and express my gratitude to the South Asia Foundation and the Asian College of Journalism for investing in young journalists from the region. Their vision of nurturing cross-border understanding through quality journalism is more relevant today than ever.

I will always cherish my time at ACJ and remain proud to be an SAF alumnus.

Jagdishor Pandey
SAF Alumnus (UMSAJ, 2017–2018)
Senior Sub-Editor
Kantipur National Daily
Kathmandu, Nepal