Communication guru Syed Amjed Ahmed dies in Bengaluru

Syed Amjed Ahmed, founding director of the Educational Multimedia Research Centre (EMMRC) and former professor and head of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism at Calicut University, passed away in Bengaluru on Monday (October 13, 2025). He was 76.

A revered teacher and communication researcher, Dr. Ahmed has touched the lives of countless students nationwide. His contributions earned him a place among the top five communication researchers in the country, leaving a lasting legacy in the academic world.

Dr. Ahmed breathed his last at a Bengaluru hospital in the early hours of Monday, following a brief illness complicated by lung issues. His Janazah prayers will be held at Masjid-e-Khadria, followed by interment at Al-Kuddus Burial Ground, Bengaluru, on Monday evening.

Holder of an MSc degree in Geology from Bangalore University, Dr. Ahmed’s academic journey took an interesting turn when he shifted gears to pursue an MS degree in communication at the same university.

He began his professional journey with a stint at Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) before joining Calicut University as a faculty member. Dr. Ahmed later headed the Department of Mass Communication at Calicut University, leaving a lasting impact through his contributions.

Dr. Ahmed played a pivotal role in establishing EMMRC at Calicut University in 1998. As the first-of-its-kind centre in Kerala set up by the University Grants Commission (UGC), EMMRC leverages information and communication technologies to advance higher education.

UGC recognised his expertise by awarding him with the Emeritus Fellow title. He went on to lead a significant research project in collaboration with the Department of Electronic Media at Bangalore University and showcased his continued commitment to research and academia.

H.S. Eswara, former professor of communication and psychology from Bangalore University, described Dr. Ahmed as a first-rate scholar, a lovable teacher, a sophisticated researcher and a fine human being.

Syed Iqbal Hasnain, renowned glaciologist and former Vice Chancellor of Calicut University, credited Dr. Ahmed with securing numerous awards for the university’s documentaries and films. He made lasting contributions to promoting education through multimedia, said Dr. Hasnain.

In his condolence message, Vice Chancellor P. Raveendran fondly remembered Dr. Ahmed as a dedicated teacher who inspired his students and broadened their horizons, leaving a lasting legacy at Calicut University.

Jemimah Nyaboke, a former student in Kenya, remembered Dr. Ahmed as a teacher who communicated with his heart and touched the lives of students globally. “He guided me as a daughter when I was in India. I remember his gentle fatherly firm voice while correcting and guiding me in my thesis,” said Ms. Nyaboke.

Film editor Suresh Pai described Dr. Ahmed as a “visionary editor and a guiding force in the world of media and communication. His commitment to excellence inspired countless journalists and media professionals,” said Mr. Pai.

Dr. Ahmed is survived by his wife, Rahana, and son Saad.