COLME

RADIO 

Radio is a very powerful technology that can allow a large populations to  be reached with information and in the case of COL's initiatives, education and training.  FM radio systems have been part of the COL project work for several years.  Refinements to that model have been made according to the data gathered in the existing installations.  An interface for telephone call-in has been added.  After an evaluation of a previously installed system, additional microphone inputs for group discussions and a more power transmitter were added. 

There are a number of technological factors that are important in the initial needs analysis before a station can be considered.  First the physical landscape must be conducive to FM signal to reach the intended target audience.  If landscape is mountainous then there will be difficulty in the signal reaching a large radius of users.  Secondly,  the station target audience must have access to radios.  Thirdly, there must be a situation where there is a steady flow of content and a regular broadcast schedule.  Most importantly, the station must be distinctive to the local listeners so they can directly relate the content, language, and situations discussed. 

Stations are being considered in Uganda, South Africa, Namibia and Sri Lanka.  Stakeholders have been targeted for each of the countries.  Their role will be to insure infrastructure is in place for GM radio and that all licensing and issues pertaining to community broadcasting have been met.  In most cases, the stations destined for Uganda and South Africa will be broadcast in language that are used daily in the local communities.  The national or regional stations do not have the capacity to aim directly at rural community issue, therefore the community based stations will be effective in providing information and training.  The station can also provide rebroadcast of other national or international stations.  In the case of Uganda, a local committee has been formed to insure that different community groups will have access to the community station. 

COL will implement the stations and initial training will be a joint effort with local broadcasters and in some cases the Commonwealth Broadcasting Association will advise on local or regional expertise for advanced training for broadcasters. 

Evaluation

The local stakeholders with the aid of COL will provide the evaluation.  Workshops will be given in production and survey techniques that will help broadcasters with improving programming to suit the needs of the community.  Local broadcasters will be tapped for expertise in advanced broadcasting techniques that will improve community radio personnel. 

Home | About COLME |  About COL  | Site Map | Contact Us

RADIO  | VIDEO | TELECONFERENCE  | MEDIA TRAINING   | COMPUTER SERVERS  l VIRTUAL  CONFERENCING