Students and faculty during the skill enhancement workshop on ‘Public Speaking, Media and Responsible Communication’ at the college conference hall on September 3.
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Chümoukedima, September 3 (MExN): The Department of Philosophy, Patkai Christian College (Autonomous), conducted a skill enhancement workshop on “Public Speaking, Media and Responsible Communication” at the college conference hall on September 3.
Dr Dakter Esse from the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication served as the resource person.
The workshop focused on developing students’ public speaking skills and increasing awareness of responsible communication in an increasingly interconnected media environment.
Addressing the fear of public speaking, Esse said it often stems from the fear of being judged, embarrassed or misunderstood. She encouraged students to move beyond their comfort zones through regular practice, noting that classrooms provide an important space to build confidence by speaking, participating in discussions and asking questions.
She outlined three fundamental pillars of public speaking—mindset, content and delivery—and identified authenticity, audacity and accountability as key qualities of an effective communicator. She urged students to express their ideas authentically, have the courage to articulate their views and take responsibility for their words.
The session included practical demonstrations on body language, gestures, tone and the use of pauses. Esse noted that effective public speaking is not merely about presenting information but ensuring that the audience understands the intended message.
A key component of the workshop was audience analysis and adaptation. Introducing the AUDIENCE framework—Analyze, Understand, Demography, Interest, Environment, Needs, Customization and Expectations—she said communication cannot follow a one-size-fits-all approach and speakers must adapt their content and delivery to their audience and context.
The workshop also examined the link between public speaking, media and responsible communication. Esse noted that a statement made before a small gathering can be recorded, shared online and reach a much wider audience through social media and digital platforms.
She therefore stressed the need for accountability and sound judgment when communicating in public, particularly in an environment where statements can be rapidly amplified.
The workshop concluded with discussions on the need to combine confidence, preparation, adaptability and responsibility in effective communication.
