Networking & digital communication through social media on promotion of fisheries professionalism Among fisheries professional

The digitalization of the agricultural and fisheries sectors has reshaped academic learning, professional networking, and career development. In Gujarat, a leading marine fisheries state in India, effective use of digital communication tools is vital for developing future fisheries professionals. This study assessed social media usage patterns and their role in promoting fisheries professionalism among fisheries students across Gujarat and other major fisheries hubs in India. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted using an online questionnaire, collecting responses from 171 students representing over 35 institutions across 17 states. Most respondents were B.F.Sc. students (81.3%), with 43.3% in their final year. Results showed very high digital engagement, with 98.8% using social media daily and 36.3% spending about four hours per day online. WhatsApp and Telegram were the primary platforms for academic coordination, with 90.1% identifying Telegram as a key knowledge-sharing tool. However, a professionalism gap was evident, as extensive use of Instagram contrasted with limited LinkedIn engagement. The study concludes that while fisheries students are digitally active, structured professional identity development remains limited, highlighting the need to integrate science communication and professional digital skills into fisheries education.