Mass communication is not just a course of study; it’s the pulse behind every voice, every story, every moment. It shapes how society functions, grows and relates with one another.
From the time of ancient drums to the development of digital technology, communication has always been the essential element of connection, growth, and change. Despite evolving methods, communication remains the lifeblood of society. It’s the heart of everything, the essence through which everything flows, and in this heartbeat, lifeblood, pulse, and essence, stands proudly my course, mass communication.
At its core, communication is the foundation of human interaction. Every aspect of our lives, politically, socially, emotionally, culturally, educationally, and economically, relies on communication. The role of mass communication in this essence is to systematise and professionalise the communication process, equipping us with basic and advanced knowledge on the communication process as well as the tools that serve: information dissemination, education, persuasion, entertainment and lastly, influential function.
From the earliest forms of human interaction to the current digital age, communication has evolved and remains the cornerstone of human contact. Mass communication extends this by emphasising how messages are created, managed, and transmitted to a large, diverse audience.
This course stands tall amongst others. Politically, it’s a pillar of democracy and keeps the government accountable and citizens informed. Health-wise, it spreads awareness and influences public behaviour. Educationally, it encourages learning and aids dialogue. In business, it shapes brand identity and reputation and gives a voice to consumers and customers. No matter the field, mass communication’s significance cannot be underestimated or overlooked. It serves as the amplifier in society, making these stories more visible, heard and impactful: worthy of hearing and to cause change and revolution in the public. It sheds light on injustice, promotes inclusivity, citizenship education and mobilises people for collective action. Summarily, mass communication is society’s amplifier. It takes small, individual voices and gives them the strength to be heard by many. In its absence, change will be slower and many important issues will be hidden and overlooked.
Mass Communication bridges culture and modernisation. Through documentaries, films, media coverage of fashion, festivals, and traditions, it preserves culture as the stories are told through generations, helping societies remember where they come from while adapting to the future.
Even in times of crisis, pandemics, natural disasters, elections and societal threats, mass communication still proves its value. It becomes the lifeline for information, guidance and surveillance. It reduces panic, shares preventive measures, facts and updates people on critical developments. This ability to serve society in both normal and emergency times shows how essential the course is.
The importance of education is simply to gain professionalism in that area of specialization. The main essence of mass communication is to groom professionals in this field. One of the things I love about my course is its versatility. A graduate of mass communication can work as a journalist, content creator, public relations officer, campaign manager, lecturer, advertising strategist, media planner, editor and broadcaster, which ends up creating employment opportunities for people, one way or the other.
Time and again, I’ve heard my lecturer say that “mass communication is for rebels.” Not destructive ones, inclusive ones. The ones ready to challenge the status quo, shed light unashamed and unafraid on hidden truths, expose corruption, and fight against injustice.
As a proud student of this course, I am not just taught to be a professional in this field; rather, I am trained to wield my words to make a change in society. I am learning how to shape opinions, hold power to account, build bridges, and speak truth in a way that creates positive change. Mass communication is not a fall-back option, it’s not a plan B, it holds its unique strength and is a major pillar to the standing of a society, drives development and keeps the world connected.
