From Grassroots to Global: Alumnus, Dr. Aniruddha Jena Joins IIT Mandi

On March 26, 2026, Dr. Aniruddha Jena embarked on a new journey as he joined the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi. He has taken on the role of Assistant Professor in the School of Management, marking a significant milestone in his academic career. Dr. Jena’s extensive experience, particularly from his previous position at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kashipur, showcases his commitment to participatory communication and academic excellence.

Academic Background

Dr. Jena’s academic journey is rooted in his time at the University of Hyderabad, where he completed his PhD from 2017 to 2022. Under the mentorship of Professor Vasuki Belavadi in the Department of Communication, he developed a strong foundation in communication studies. His doctoral research was marked by a focus on participatory communication, a theme that has continued to influence his work.

Contributions to Community Media

During his time at the University of Hyderabad, Dr. Jena was actively involved in various projects associated with the UNESCO Chair on Community Media. His contributions to community media initiatives have been instrumental in promoting dialogue and engagement among diverse communities. This involvement not only enriched his academic profile but also reinforced his commitment to fostering inclusive communication practices.

Global Recognition

Dr. Jena’s upcoming year promises to be a remarkable one, as he has been awarded the prestigious Charles Wallace India Trust Fellowship at King’s College London for the academic year 2025–26. This fellowship is a testament to his global reach and recognition in the field of communication research. As a Co-Vice Chair of the Participatory Communication Research Section at the International Association for Media and Communication Research (IAMCR), Dr. Jena continues to influence the global discourse on participatory communication.

Impact on Students and Mentorship

Despite his international accolades, Dr. Jena remains deeply committed to mentorship and education. His experiences at the University of Hyderabad have shaped his approach to teaching and guiding students. He believes in the power of participatory communication not only as a research focus but also as a pedagogical tool that encourages student engagement and critical thinking.

Future Aspirations

As Dr. Jena transitions to IIT Mandi, he aims to integrate his research interests with teaching methodologies that emphasize participatory communication. His vision includes:

• Developing innovative curriculum that incorporates participatory approaches.
• Encouraging students to engage in community-based projects that enhance learning.
• Fostering collaborations with local communities to address real-world issues through communication.

Conclusion

Dr. Aniruddha Jena’s journey from the University of Hyderabad to IIT Mandi exemplifies the potential of grassroots initiatives to achieve global impact. His dedication to participatory communication and mentorship will undoubtedly inspire future generations of students. As he embarks on this new chapter, the academic community looks forward to his contributions to both local and global dialogues in the field of communication.

Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest updates from the University of Hyderabad and other reliable sources.