The Pathshala South Asian Media Institute is one of South Asia’s leading institutions for photography and visual media education, based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Established in 1998, the institute has built a strong reputation for producing internationally recognized photographers, photojournalists, and visual storytellers.
Founded by renowned photographer and activist Shahidul Alam, Pathshala began as a photography school under the Drik network with the aim of developing critical, socially engaged visual storytelling in the region. Over time, it expanded into a comprehensive media institute offering academic and professional training in photography, film, and multimedia journalism.
The institute is widely regarded for its emphasis on documentary photography, photojournalism, and visual narrative practice, combining technical training with strong theoretical and ethical foundations. Students are encouraged to engage with real-world issues such as human rights, climate change, migration, and social inequality through visual storytelling.
Pathshala offers structured academic programs, including undergraduate-level photography education and postgraduate diplomas in film and media studies. Its teaching model is known for being practice-oriented, where students work closely with professional photographers and visiting faculty from around the world.
Over the years, Pathshala has produced several internationally acclaimed photographers, including GMB Akash, Munem Wasif, Sarker Protick, Abir Abdullah, and Andrew Biraj, many of whom have received global recognition and awards in photojournalism and documentary photography.
The institute also maintains strong links with international organizations, exhibitions, and training platforms, helping Bangladeshi photographers gain global exposure. It is considered a key hub for developing South Asia’s contemporary visual culture and documentary practice.
Today, Pathshala continues to play an influential role in shaping new generations of photographers in Bangladesh and beyond, particularly in the fields of socially engaged and narrative-driven photography.
