Jakarta, 26 November 2025 — An energetic and inquisitive atmosphere filled the Prof. Husnul Aqib Suminto Theater at the Faculty of Dakwah and Communication Sciences (FDIKOM), UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, as students gathered for the International Public Lecture titled “Global News Ecosystems in the Digital Era: Lessons from Russia Today (RT)”. Held on Wednesday morning, 26 November 2025, the event was designed for students of the Journalism and Islamic Broadcasting Communication programs to broaden their understanding of how global media operate and how international narratives are shaped in today’s digital environment.

Speaking to the audience, Mr. Denis from Russia Today (RT) emphasized the significance of embracing diverse media perspectives, especially for future journalists. “It is essential for media students to engage with diverse viewpoints. Global media landscapes are complex, and understanding them requires open dialogue,” he noted, underscoring the importance of cross-cultural conversations in navigating global information flows. Complementing his remarks, Mr. Rasyid, also representing RT, highlighted the rapidly shifting media terrain shaped by geopolitical tensions and technological change. “Media today operates within global tensions and technological shifts. Conversations like this help us all reflect on how information flows and how audiences can navigate it wisely,” he said.

Head of the Journalism Study Program, Dr. Bintan Humeira, M.Si, stressed the relevance of this session for students who will soon take part in the professional world of journalism. She noted that understanding how narratives are constructed and how geopolitical interests influence global reporting is crucial for developing critical media literacy. “Students need to see how global media work, how narratives are built, and how geopolitical interests shape news perspectives. Through this session, we want our students to think critically and recognize that the global information ecosystem is never neutral,” she explained.

Closing the event, Prof. Dr. Gun Gun Heryanto, M.Si, Dean of FDIKOM, expressed his gratitude to the RT representatives for sharing their insights and engaging in dialogue with the students. “Mr. Denis and Mr. Rasyid, it is important for us to see another perspective, from another media and another country. Thank you very much for coming. It’s an honor for us to discuss global media issues with you all,” he remarked.

The three-hour lecture, running from 09.00 to 12.00 WIB, featured an engaging series of activities—from the opening session and keynote presentations to a dynamic discussion and Q&A segment involving active student participation. Through this international lecture, FDIKOM reaffirms its commitment to providing globally relevant academic exposure and equipping students with analytical skills to better understand and navigate the rapidly evolving global media industry.