Dr Wilson (front row, middle) with the participants of the conference
Assoc Prof Dr Sharon Wilson, Chairperson of the Centre for Media and Communication Research (CMCR), had the distinct honour of delivering keynote addresses at three prestigious conferences in India, from 18 to 23 February 2025. Her academic engagements commenced at the International Conference on “Sustainability, Innovation, and Social Responsibility” at the Naipunnya Institute of Management and Information Technology, Thrissur, Kerala. She then proceeded to the International Conference on “Pioneering Trends in Commerce and Tourism” at Bharata Mata College, Thirikkakara, Kerala, before concluding with the Interdisciplinary International Conference on Sustainable Energy, Environment, and Technology (S’EnErgy-2025) at Mar Baselios Christian College of Engineering & Technology (MBCCET), Peermade, Kerala, India.
This opportunity was both a professional milestone and a cultural enrichment for Dr Wilson, providing her with deeper insights into the intersection of media, technology, and global business trends. Each conference facilitated dynamic discussions among scholars, industry experts, and policymakers. At Naipunnya College, her keynote address focused on Media, Innovation, and Social Responsibility. At Bharata Mata College, her discussion revolved around the evolving role of media in shaping public perceptions of commerce and tourism, particularly in the digital age. Upon reaching the highlands of Idukki, her thematic focus shifted to empowering communities, transforming futures, and education for a sustainable world at Mar Baselios College.
Beyond the academic setting, Dr Wilson’s visit to Kerala provided her with valuable insights into how India is leveraging technology for economic growth. Engaging conversations with fellow researchers and students highlighted India’s advancements in digital commerce, smart tourism initiatives, and engineering innovations, aligning closely with CMCR’s work in media, cyber socialisation, and digital space studies. Additionally, the hospitality, culture, and historical richness of each location further enriched her experience, underscoring the significance of cross-cultural academic exchanges.
A key takeaway from these conferences was the impact of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing global challenges. Synergistic teamwork between institutions fosters transformative ideas and innovations. This experience reaffirmed Dr Wilson’s commitment to global academic partnerships, emphasising the importance of leveraging shared expertise to navigate the evolving digital landscape.
Moving forward, Dr Wilson remains committed to fostering engagements that bridge academia and industry, driving meaningful discourse on digital-era challenges and opportunities. She also aims to connect scholars and research centres at UTAR with international counterparts to enhance a globalised perspective and contribute to various fields of knowledge.
Dr Wilson with Dr Oommen Mammen, Director, Mar Baselios Christian College of Engineering and Technology (in blue)
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