New Students at KTMU Faculty of Communication Introduced to Vocational Training Opportunities
During an orientation program organized at the Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University (KTMU) Faculty of Communication, first-year students received comprehensive information regarding departmental curricula, practical training facilities, and potential career paths. KTMU Department of Journalism alumna and investigative journalist Asel Shamilova participated in the program supported by faculty members and senior students sharing her professional experiences and urging incoming students to gain field experience from their very first year.
Speaking at the opening of the event organized by Asst. Prof. Dr. Venera Narinova, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gulzada Stanalieva highlighted the academic and professional achievements of the faculty's students. Citing examples of student work that garnered Presidential Scholarships as well as accolades in international competitions and festivals, Stanalieva encouraged the new cohort to establish clear career objectives and fully utilize the available educational resources.
Senior Students Share Departmental Insights
The program featured presentations by senior students representing the Department of Journalism, the Department of Radio, Television and Cinema, and the Department of Public Relations and Advertising.
Fourth-year Journalism student Asylai Toroeva provided detailed insights into course content, hands-on training, and career avenues for graduates. Emphasizing the importance of reinforcing theoretical knowledge through practical application, Toroeva encouraged incoming students to engage actively with upperclassmen and expressed readiness to mentor them through potential challenges.
Representing the Department of Radio, Television and Cinema, Jamal Joromyrzaeva and Shayrgul Janibek kyzy outlined the academic curriculum and creative project opportunities. Highlighting student achievements in national and international festivals and competitions, their presentations urged newcomers to hone their skills by actively participating in creative endeavors.
Aida Abdysatarova introduced the Department of Public Relations and Advertising, detailing the curriculum centered on communication strategies, advertising campaigns, and digital platform management. She also shared comprehensive information on employment sectors open to graduates.
Overview of Academic Planning and International Opportunities
Students were briefed on mandatory and elective courses, credit requirements, and academic planning. The presentation emphasized the critical importance of fulfilling academic responsibilities consistently from the first year and aligning professional goals with the educational process.
The program also showcased opportunities for participation in local and international competitions, festivals, academic mobility, and exchange programs, alongside an introduction to administrative and academic support units. Promotional videos highlighting the faculty’s achievements and student productions were screened throughout the event.
Graduate Asel Shamilova Calls for Early Field Experience
Guest speaker Asel Shamilova, an investigative journalist and KTMU Journalism graduate, shared her professional journey with the students. Stressing that theoretical instruction in journalism education must be complemented by practical field work, Shamilova advised: "Do not wait until your senior year to undertake internships."
Noting that students can begin honing their skills in information gathering, interviewing, and content production from their very first year, Shamilova urged them to embrace field opportunities without hesitation and leverage every learning encounter available to them.
