Marking yet another milestone in their educational journey, students from Army Public School, enrolled in the Media Masterclass Programme under the joint aegis of Saksham Sanchar Foundation and the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA), had the unique opportunity to attend live classes on political reporting at the Rajasthan Assembly on Monday, July 22.
An Immersive Learning Experience
The students had the rare chance to witness the ongoing assembly session, where lawmakers discussed the current challenges facing the state. This immersive experience allowed them to see firsthand how debates shape the laws that govern their state. They learned how bills are discussed, debated, and eventually converted into Acts, providing a practical understanding of the legislative process.
Interaction with Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani
One of the highlights of the visit was an interactive session with Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani. He spoke to the students on a range of issues, emphasizing their role in nation-building and the importance of their ambitions. The Speaker’s insights provided the students with a deeper understanding of the legislative process and the significance of maintaining an unbiased stance in parliamentary proceedings.
Insights from Veteran Journalists
Veteran journalists, including Sandeep Dahiya from PTI, Yogendra Sharma from JAN TV, and Jitendra Dwivedi from All India Radio (AIR), also engaged with the students. They provided an in-depth look at the functioning of the assembly, explaining the procedures and protocols involved in legislative sessions. The journalists detailed the differences between starred and unstarred questions, highlighting how replies are managed in written and oral formats, respectively.
Understanding Protocols and Decorum
The visit also educated the students on the strict protocols and decorum maintained within the assembly premises. They learned about the security measures in place, such as prohibiting black clothes and digital devices, and the importance of maintaining proper decorum in the visitor seating area. The emphasis on sitting straight and the presence of officials to enforce these rules underscored the discipline and respect required within the assembly.
Connection to Previous Learning
Their earlier visit to Raj Bhavan provided a foundational understanding of how a bill becomes an act only after the Governor’s signature. This prior knowledge enhanced their experience at the assembly, allowing them to connect the theoretical aspects of governance with the practical procedures they observed.
A Memorable Experience
The students had a memorable experience watching the live debates and interacting with key figures in the political and journalistic spheres. The session concluded with the Speaker himself sharing a post on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, acknowledging the students’ visit and their enthusiasm for learning about the legislative process.
Summing Up
This visit to the Rajasthan Assembly was an invaluable educational experience for the Army Public School students, providing them with practical insights into political reporting and the legislative process. It emphasized the importance of active citizenship and the role of journalism in a democracy, leaving a lasting impact on these future leaders and journalists.
For more details, you can check the Speaker’s post here.