Mass Communication and Mass Media have made immense contributions to nation-building and social transformation. In an era where divisive issues like language, caste, and community are exploited to fragment society, Intercultural Communication—a core aspect of Mass Media and Mass Communication—holds the power to foster national unity and integrity.
With over 100,000 publications, 900+ television channels, nearly 700 radio stations, countless news platforms, and more than 900 colleges and institutes offering journalism and mass communication programs, India boasts one of the largest media ecosystems in the world. Despite a media boom, the state of media education remains challenging. However, standout institutions like the Xavier Institute of Communications (XIC) set a benchmark for excellence, offering a diverse range of training and production services.
As one of Asia’s largest non-government media centers by course offerings and enrollments, XIC continues to shine as a hub for quality learning. In recognition of its outstanding contributions, we proudly confer the title of Best Media and Mass Communication Institute of the Year 2024 on XIC at the Education Excellence Awards.
From the Scratch
The Xavier Institute of Communications (XIC), established in 1969 by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), was founded to promote scholarship and professionalism in the media industry. Today, it is managed by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) of the Bombay Province, a group renowned for their 450-year-old tradition of excellence originating with St. Ignatius of Loyola in 1540. XIC operates across two locations in Mumbai—the St. Xavier’s College campus and the St. Xavier’s High School campus—under the Bombay St. Xavier’s College Society Trust, which also encompasses St. Xavier’s College, the Xavier Institute of Management and Research (XIMR), and the Heras Institute of Indian History and Culture.
Bridging Academia and Industry
XIC’s curriculum reflects its forward-thinking approach, evolving alongside the rapidly changing media landscape. Importantly, Xavier Institute of Communications places a strong emphasis on bridging academia and industry through collaborations with leading media organizations and professionals. These partnerships provide students with valuable insights into cutting-edge tools, technologies, and industry practices. By fostering alliances with renowned institutions such as Deakin University and Griffith University in Australia, Emlyon Business School in France, Don Bosco International Media Academy (DBIMA) in Paris, GIZ in Germany, and UNICEF, XIC ensures a global perspective in media education.
The partnership with DBIMA, Paris, exemplifies XIC’s commitment to enhancing academic and cultural exchange. Through joint workshops, XIC students participate in hands-on projects that blend theoretical learning with practical application, such as creating short films involving participants from all course departments.
Leading the Digital Charge
To gain insight into the vision that keeps XIC ahead of its peers in delivering excellence to its students, we had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Fr. Conrad Pesso, SJ, the Director of XIC. When asked about the institute’s preparedness for the ongoing digital revolution, he explained, “XIC courses are constantly upgraded, keeping global demands and technological innovations in mind. Currently, XIC is focusing on data analytics for media and marketing, the widespread application of artificial intelligence, and the growing influence of social media.”
Elaborating further on how the curriculum adapts to emerging trends, Dr. Pesso added, “A substantial portion of our curriculum emphasizes emerging digital technologies, social media platforms, and UX design. Additionally, we offer a year-long diploma program in digital media, known as SMDC (Strategic, Media, and Digital Technology Convergence).”
Empowering Students Through Expertise
The Xavier Institute of Communications (XIC) takes immense pride in its highly experienced faculty, a sentiment echoed by Director Dr. Fr. Conrad Pesso, SJ, who highlighted their pivotal role in shaping future media professionals. “With their practical knowledge, they inspire students to become excellent professionals,” he remarked.
XIC’s faculty comprises a diverse blend of academics and distinguished industry professionals who bring their extensive expertise and hands-on experience into the classroom. Their work is frequently showcased and discussed, providing students with real-world insights and best practices. Respected in their respective fields for both their media skills and teaching abilities, XIC’s faculty are dedicated to sharing their knowledge with the next generation of eager postgraduates, fostering a dynamic and enriching learning environment.
Shaping Industry Leaders
The Xavier Institute of Communications has established itself as a premier institution whose alumni are highly sought after by the media industry, corporate sector, and non-profit organizations, both in India and abroad.
In the film industry, notable alumni include celebrated names such as Imtiaz Ali, Ranveer Shorey, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Vikramaditya Motwane, Anshul Trivedi, John Matthan Mathew, Sasha Chettri (popularly known as the Airtel Ad Girl), Gagan Arora, Rensil D’Silva, Varsha Panikar, and Piyush Gupta. XIC has also shaped the careers of distinguished television anchors like Rajeev Masand, Esha Hanspal, Saurabh Gupta, Bhupendra Chaubey, Mayuresh Ganpatye, Vedant Neb, Umesh Kumavat, Swati Vemul, and Akshay Ghuge.
Many XIC alumni have also ventured into entrepreneurship and hold prominent positions in the corporate and media world. Notable figures include Namit Malhotra, Founder and Global CEO of Prime Focus Ltd.; Josy Paul, Chief Creative Officer and Chairperson of BBDO India; and Rahul daCunha, the renowned adman behind Amul’s topicals, as well as a playwright, columnist, and film producer. Other distinguished alumni include Gyan Correa, an acclaimed scriptwriter and director of The Good Road (2013), and Dr. Shaison P. Ouseph, an internationally celebrated filmmaker whose award-winning film The Face of the Faceless has garnered over 85 international accolades and qualified for the Oscars 2024.
Recognizing Excellence
XIC offers a range of scholarships and awards to support and motivate its students. At the end of each academic year, the institute presents scholarships in the form of certificates, cash prizes, and fee concessions for deserving students. Additionally, XIC encourages students to participate in both local and global competitions, providing opportunities for their work to be evaluated by a diverse panel of judges. Among the awards offered are the Best All-Around Student, Ignatian Award, Best Course Student, Best Student Project in Group Projects, and Best Audio-Visual Student Documentary. These awards are generously sponsored by alumni or their families, further strengthening the connection between XIC and its alumni community.
