In a significant move to bridge journalism and artificial intelligence, tech giant Google has announced the launch of the Google News Initiative (GNI) AI Skills Academy in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC). The program aims to prepare Indian newsrooms for a rapidly evolving, AI-driven future by equipping journalists and media educators with essential skills and tools.

10-Week Hybrid Course 

Designed as a 10-week hybrid training series, the AI Skills Academy seeks to impart both foundational knowledge of AI and hands-on experience in using cutting-edge tools. The initiative will support journalists, newsroom professionals, and media educators in learning to work smarter with AI—enabling deeper research, more efficient workflows, and greater creative freedom.

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Leveraging Google’s AI Ecosystem

Participants will gain practical knowledge of Google’s powerful AI tools such as NotebookLM, Gemini, AI Studio, and Pinpoint. These tools are specifically chosen for their ability to streamline editorial processes, enhance productivity, and support in-depth storytelling. The program goes beyond tutorials. With the support of How India Lives, it will feature weekly deep dives, practical assignments, one-on-one mentoring, and problem-solving workshops, all tailored to newsroom-centric use cases.

Training the Next Gen of Media Profs

IIMC will integrate the program into its curriculum across six campuses in India, reaching aspiring journalists and media students. According to Nimish Rustagi, Registrar at IIMC, “As AI transforms journalism, this initiative will help media professionals stay ahead. We intend to promote responsible innovation and enhance creativity in storytelling.”

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Step Towards AI-Literate Journalism

Google’s latest move underlines its commitment to fostering innovation within journalism. By joining hands with one of India’s premier media education institutes, the tech leader is not only helping current newsrooms adapt to technological change but also investing in the future of storytelling. This partnership could mark a pivotal turning point in how Indian journalism evolves in the AI era—making the skills of tomorrow accessible today.