Inside the Newsroom: RP Students Go Behind the Scenes at SPH Media Day 2025

Mass Communication students from Republic Polytechnic pose for a group photo at SPH Media’s headquarters before diving into a day of newsroom exploration. PHOTO: SPH Media

Ever wondered what it’s like inside one of Singapore’s busiest newsrooms? For a group of Republic Polytechnic (RP) Diploma in Mass Communication students, that curiosity turned into reality when they were invited to SPH Media Day 2025 at the company’s Toa Payoh headquarters.

Mass Communication students from Republic Polytechnic pose for a group photo at SPH Media’s headquarters before diving into a day of newsroom exploration. PHOTO: SPH Media

Held annually, SPH Media Day offers students an exclusive peek into the country’s media powerhouse – home to The Straits Times, Berita Harian, Lianhe Zaobao, Kiss92FM, The Business Times, and more. From meeting industry professionals to exploring high-tech studios, it was a day filled with inspiration, laughter, and plenty of learning.

A Warm Welcome

The visit began with warm smiles and a caffeine boost. Despite the morning rush, SPH staff took the time to greet the students, creating an atmosphere that immediately felt inviting.

Kiss92 DJ Yumiko Kayahara kicked things off with an engaging introduction to SPH’s wide range of media platforms – radio, print, and digital. The session wrapped up on a high note with a fun quiz where lucky students walked away with vouchers.

From breaking news to heartfelt stories – a Berita Harian writer brings the realities of journalism to life for RP students. PHOTO: Faith Alexandrea Selvam

A Peek Behind the Headlines

The highlight of the morning was an insider tour of Berita Harian, The Straits Times, and Studio +65, SPH’s in-house creative and innovation hub.

Students got to see how journalists and producers work together to turn breaking news and big ideas into the stories and visuals that shape Singapore’s media landscape.. 

For Amanda Lee Yin Fang, Studio +65 left a lasting impression. “The fact that they pull off such intricate productions in such a small space was really impressive,” she said. “The green screen effects were amazing – seeing them in action was eye-opening.”

Inside the World of Lifestyle Journalism

After lunch, it was time to switch gears, from newsrooms to glossy magazines. Editors from Her World and F*Zine** hosted an “Ask Me Anything” session, candidly answering questions about deadlines, creativity, and the realities of lifestyle journalism.

Their honesty and enthusiasm gave students a better understanding of what it takes to keep readers engaged in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

“They were so genuine about their experiences,” said one student. “You could feel how much they loved what they do.”

Students get candid answers and insider tips from an editor at SPH’s lifestyle magazine, FZine.*PHOTO: Muhammad Hakim Bin Muhammad Rostam

Dreams, Drive, and Determination

The day wrapped up with heartfelt advice from SPH professionals who reminded the students that there’s space in the media world for everyone – writers, producers, editors, and dreamers alike.

Ms. Shaista Dinis, Senior Promotions Executive at Kiss92, left a memorable message:

“Be patient and never give up. You’re not supposed to figure everything out in your twenties. Just keep going.”

Her words resonated deeply with many. “There’s a reason I’ve stayed here for years,” she added with a smile. “It’s the people. When everyone shares a common goal, the work becomes meaningful and fun.”

A Story to Remember

By the end of the visit, any lingering doubts about the media industry had melted away. The students left SPH inspired, reassured, and eager to chase their own bylines someday.

From insightful conversations to behind-the-scenes moments, SPH Media Day 2025 offered more than just a tour – it gave RP students a front-row seat to the future they’re preparing to shape.