World Radio Day 2024-messages from our listeners

RRI’s wonderful listeners all over the world have started sending in messages on WRD 2024 as early as January.

Lăcrămioara Simion, 17.02.2024, 14:00

This week, on February 13, the world celebrated World Radio Day, so, we devoted this edition of Listeners’ Letterbox to this day and to RRI’s wonderful radio listeners all over the world who have started sending us messages about the significance of radio in their lives as early as January. We thank you all for your wonderful, inspired contributions, text or audio messages, sent via e-mail, Facebook and WhatsApp, and, in today’s program, we continue quoting from as many of your contributions as possible.

We first thank our old friend from Denmark, Hans Verner Lollike, our friend from India Mr. Anand Mohan Bain and Mr. Rasheed Naz, from Naz Radio Romania Internet Fan Club, Faisal Abad Pakistan, for the wonderful audio messages sent in on World Radio Day.

Please find below all the messages you, our listeners around the world, sent in on World Radio Day 2024.

“Oh, well, just the word radio brings back bittersweet memories since my childhood. The magic and mystery of a voice and songs and music captivated my attention even though in my early years I did not understand but my native language and English. Every time I turned it on it felt like I was in another world, surrounded by mystery and imagination and the hope of one day visiting places. Little by little listening to various stations made me curious about other languages and I started understanding some key words and phrases ultimately leading me to learn a few of those languages. And by that time, I became knowledgeable of other cultures, their world, food, music, traditions and life. Slowly and as a consequence of radio listening, I became curious about its operation, leading me to acquire some knowledge of electronics. It was long before I made friendships around the world by listening to international radio stations and reading and collaborating with relative publications. Radio became my world, and I don’t see a substitute for it, as no television, no internet, no television, no newspaper can generate the same magic experience. Sure, habits change over the years, each new generation has different interests than the previous one but that has not eliminated the need and the pleasure of sitting down, a cup of tea on the side, maybe reading a newspaper but still listening to the news or even better to some music from faraway places. And you can do that without disturbing others by using headphones. You can do that away from home, under a tree, at the beach travelling, either to help you fall asleep or to remind you to wake up. Some say radio, especially international radio, which is owned by governments, offers biased news. Although that is not always the case, I like that simply because on the one hand I have learned to see when that is the case, on the other hand, I can tune to different stations and hear the same event from different angles of interest thus draw my conclusion on what the reality is!

Without a radio, I would not be able to do it even though the internet can offer a viable alternative which requires more time searching pages after pages and assuming there is a good signal, if there is one as it is the case quite often especially in isolated places. Not to mention the internet does not offer activities like the one I am participating in right now while at the same time it exposes someone to known risks. I use both but there is no comparison between the two.

Unfortunately, along with the changing habits and the new ways of getting the news and entertainment other things changed: radio manufacturers had to shift their investment to new gadgets, internet and shifted the way governments spread the news, radio stations saw their audience numbers falling and they dropped their broadcasts or ceased all together. A vicious cycle. But although some forecasters since the mid – to – late 90s saw the disappearance of radio by 2010 or 2020. It has not happened yet and I don’t see that happening, at least not to local stations, meanwhile some international stations have come to life. Who knows, radio may follow in the footsteps of LP records. ‘Sed omnia praeclara tan difficilia, quam rara sunt’. From the world, with love.” (Fotios Padazopulos)

“Dear sir, WRD February 13 marks a special day for the use of radio. Radio has been around for 100 years and is still going strong despite other means of media. Since the use of shortwave, my favorite band, is more and more becoming obsolete for some countries, I wish to point out that radio waves cannot not be easily stopped at borders. The information sent on the airwaves is free for receiving by anyone with a simple radio capable of receiving shortwave and can be done anonymously. Cheap (shortwave) radios are widely available in any country of the world, except a few countries. If you want unbiased information or information from a country direct, shortwave is still my first choice. I regret that more and more countries leave the shortwave bands as they think that the internet is a good replacement. It isn’t. Yes, the internet is cheap and should be available worldwide, but it isn’t anonymously or in many cases not accessible because of (geo)blockings. Receiving radio stations is anonymous and free, giving people a (reasonable) chance of receiving information that otherwise would not be disclosed to them. Therefore, radio is still a very good, if not the best choice for receiving and disclosing information especially now with more and more regions in the world in turmoil.” (Gérard Koopal, Almere, The Netherlands)

“WORLD RADIO DAY 2024! Indeed, one can derive a lot of pleasure from listening to radio stations, especially when one is thrilled or inspired by the program he or she is listening to. Of course, we cannot run away from the fact that the digital age met the analogue age of radio listenership around the world, and still most people enjoy listening to radio more than the digital age broadcasts.

In most Nigerian villages, towns or urban settlements radio has been playing a unique role, a role of getting listeners to have smiles and sometimes laughter on their faces. In some quarters, radio has been playing a role of joining relationships, and at times creating avenues for reunion between friends and family members globally.

Personally, radio has played a vital role in making me travel for adventures, travel to make new friends and meet new people in life, and through or courtesy of radio listenership I travelled all the way from Nigeria through to Europe and to Asia, aside travelling to some African countries. I made friends, I made contacts, I received a lot of souvenirs, and I made small stipends with the help of the radio. Also, I introduced a lot of friends, colleagues and loved ones into radio listenership, and they are thanking me and appreciating the idea from day one.

Radio has really helped and still helps in the exchange of cultures between countries, between individuals, between organizations, and it has also helped in guiding people to partake in developments and progress globally. I can say, radio has been a pride of many people both in the west, south, east, and north.

In my opinion, radio should be seen as a means of finding solutions to aggrieved nations, communities, and individuals globally especially through dialogue and in radio listenership. And since time immemorial, radio served great nations, people and individuals where considerable goals were achieved and written in history pages.

I enjoy listening to the radio, and I am proud to be a listener of radio stations and programs. In fact, I’ve never regretted listening to radio programs.

Aside from listening to English programs in radio stations around the world, I listen to programs in Hausa (my mother-tongue) services of other radio stations both at home and abroad.

I see radio as a tool that served the past, still serving the present and shall continue to serve the future due to its innocence and calmness. May radio continue to serve humanity more and more in the future. Happy Radio Day 2024 To You All!” Your Listener From Nigeria.”(Mr. Salisu Muhammad Dawanau)

“Thoughts on World Radio Day”: “World Radio Day is here again this year. On the occasion of this day, UNESCO invites the radio industry to focus on the three major highlights, which may also be a call to us. Among these three highlights the closest to us is probably the role of radio especially in times of disasters. The present day is said to be the age of internet. However, natural or man-made disasters, the internet sometimes becomes useless. Radio, on the other hand, can transmit information as long as the sender, receiver, and their equipment remain functional. Indeed, for example, radio has played an important role in the war in Ukraine and in floods and earthquakes around the world. To be prepared for such a situation, we should always familiarize ourselves with radio. Of course, I should, and I do.”(Teruhiko Kachi, Nagoya, Japan)

Happy World Radio Day 2024. World Radio Day, recognized formally by the United Nations General Assembly on February 13th, 2011, is indeed a significant celebration highlighting the crucial role of radio as a medium of communication and expression. Radio has been instrumental in keeping people informed and connected, particularly in this digital age where internet radio streams enable listeners to stay in touch with global happenings regardless of their age or location.

The versatility of radio is unparalleled, offering a wide range of content from news and current affairs to culture, education, music, information, and knowledge. It serves as a platform where diverse voices can be heard, fostering inclusivity and understanding within communities. Moreover, radio’s accessibility makes it a powerful tool for reaching populations in remote or marginalized areas where other forms of media may be limited or unavailable.

World Radio Day serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of radio in our lives and the need to continue supporting this invaluable medium as it evolves and adapts to the changing landscape of communication.

The versatility of radio is unparalleled, offering a wide range of content from news and current affairs to culture, education, music, information, and knowledge. It serves as a platform where diverse voices can be heard, fostering inclusivity and understanding within communities. Moreover, radio’s accessibility makes it a powerful tool for reaching populations in remote or marginalized areas where other forms of media may be limited or unavailable.

World Radio Day serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of radio in our lives and the need to continue supporting this invaluable medium as it evolves and adapts to the changing landscape of communication.

Absolutely, the theme “Radio: A century informing, entertaining, and educating” beautifully captures the enduring significance of radio despite the advent of digital technologies. Over the past century, radio has proven to be a resilient medium, constantly adapting to changing times and technologies while remaining a vital source of information, entertainment, and education for audiences around the world. Its ability to reach diverse audiences, often in remote or underserved areas, makes it a powerful tool for communication and community building. In today’s digital age, radio continues to evolve, leveraging new technologies and platforms to stay relevant and engaging.

World Radio Day celebrates the profound impact of radio in uniting people, providing education, information, and entertainment. In 2024, the celebration is marked by various activities worldwide, including exhibitions, special broadcasts, community events, awards, and online engagements. These events highlight the diverse ways in which radio enriches lives and fosters connections across communities. Here’s to a Happy World Radio Day 2024, celebrating the enduring power of this timeless medium.” With Best Wishes, Amir Jameel.”(Amir Jameel, Sahiwal, Pakistan)

“Dear Friends at Radio Romania International: Greetings from Hyderabad, India!

World Radio Day has been celebrated on February 13 every year since 2012.  Radio is a powerful medium for celebrating humanity in all its diversity and constitutes a platform for democratic discourse.  In India, rural folk enjoy radio especially, which is part and parcel of life.

The theme for 2024 is “Radio: A century informing, entertaining and educating.” This theme perfectly highlights the remarkable history of radio, its relevant present, and the promising future to cater to the world with information, entertainment and educational content.

YOUNG STARS RADIO CLUB will organize a special program in India with the general public on this occasion on February 13. On this occasion, we would like to share a few things about radio.

Past: Radio is part and parcel of rural folk in India.  We have so many memories of the radio.  When we wake up in the morning during the 70’s and 80’s radio is the only media through which we come to know about the latest news updates in the local language.  There will be news, inspiring devotional songs, youth programmes, farmers programmes and special interviews on the social developments.  It enriches the knowledge of children by listening to various programmes through radio.  Children of rural villages are lucky to have the radio as the special media.  During my childhood I was inspired by the All India Radio Local AM Channel news, devotional and folk songs.

Present:

·      I started my hobby of Shortwave Radio listening during the early ‘80s with the Telugu language program of Radio Moscow Friends club.

·      Got my first QSL from Radio Prague.

·      Got DX Diploma from Radio Prague

·      Member of BRT Listeners Club

·      Member of Radio Berlin International Listeners Club.

·      Technical Monitor for WYFR, Family Radio.

Our Club YOUNG STARS RADIO CLUB is registered by VOA Listeners Clubs, Radio Veritas Asia, Deutsche Welle Hindi Service, Voice of Russa Hindi Service, RFI Listeners Clubs. With the support of RFI sometime back, we have organized awareness programs in local schools and distributed the pens to school children.

Future:·      With advancements in technology, now we are able to listen to radio online.

·      FM broadcasting and online streaming provided easy access to the listeners.

·      We are able to listen to radio programs through Mobile App.

·      Still we are able to catch the signals of Shortwave Radio and getting a QSL card nowadays gives more pleasure.

·      Participating in the contest organized by the Radio Station is another interest for the listeners.

·      Radio Prague still sends t-shirts to the winners in their monthly contests, Radio Romania International provides special prizes to the winners in their regular contests.

·      Radio Romania International, our favorite Station, organizes special contests to its listeners.

Radio has the ability to reach across borders and can become a valuable source of information. From YOUNG STARS RADIO CLUB, HYDERABAD we always promote this radio listening hobby giving wide awareness and publicity about the hobby. Our club slogan is always “Shortwave – travel through the sound waves”. We thank one and all at RRI and for their support to the listeners. We wish World Radio Day 2024 a successful and memorable day attracting more radio listeners. Happy listening and Happy DXing!”(Hari Madugula, India)

“Dear Madam Sir, I am so happy to write this email to you. I hope you are having a wonderful day. I have been a faithful listener to your programs for a long time. Concerning the WRD, RRI played a great role in fostering dialogue, promoting cultural diversity, and addressing important issues. By the way, I hope you will organize more contests and quizzes for listeners and viewers of RRI. Could you please send me some postcards, qsl and books about Romania culture?” (Nazih Mohammed, Morocco)

“Dear Sir, RRI World Radio English service. On February 13th Our Radio listener’s Club is celebrating World Radio Day. This day is dedicated to celebrating the role of radio in society and its impact on our daily lives.  Radio has been an integral part of our lives for over a century. It has played a crucial role in providing access to information, entertainment, and education to people around the world. In times of crisis, radio has served as a lifeline, providing critical information and updates to communities in need.  Radio is more than just a medium of entertainment and information. It is a tool for social and cultural development, connecting communities and promoting diversity and dialogue. Radio programs, especially those dedicated to local communities, provide a platform for local voices and perspectives to be heard.  As we celebrate World Radio Day, let us recognize the important role that radio plays in our lives and the lives of communities around the world. Let us also take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of those who work in the radio industry, bringing us content that informs, inspires, and entertains us.  So, on this World Radio Day, let us tune in to our favorite radio stations and celebrate the power of radio.  We hope you help and send some information materials with souvenir for our Radio club next conference as a token of love.” (Kanchan KR Chatterjee, West Bengal, India)

“Dear Sir/Ma’am, Happy World Radio Day! On this special occasion, I want to take a moment to express my utmost appreciation for the incredible work you are doing. Your dedication to delivering captivating content, fostering community engagement, and amplifying diverse voices is truly commendable.

In today’s digital age, where technology constantly evolves, the timeless charm and significance of radio remain unparalleled. As we celebrate World Radio Day, it’s essential to acknowledge the profound impact radio continues to have on our lives. From delivering breaking news and entertaining programming to promoting cultural exchange and social cohesion, radio serves as a beacon of information and inspiration for millions around the globe.

Your commitment to excellence in broadcasting is evident in every show aired, every story told, and every listener reached. Your ability to captivate audiences with compelling content while fostering meaningful connections within your community is a testament to your unwavering passion and professionalism.

As we reflect on the importance of radio in today’s era, let us also celebrate the power of storytelling, the beauty of diverse perspectives, and the strength of unity that radio brings to our lives each day.

Here’s to another year of inspiring broadcasts, meaningful conversations, and endless possibilities. Wishing you continued success and prosperity in all your endeavors. Happy World Radio Day! Warm regards.” (Muhammad Aqeel Bashir & All Club Members, Pak Listeners Club, Jhang, International Radio Listeners Organization Pakistan)

“World Radio Day (English: World Radio Day; French: Le jour mondial de la radio) is an international day celebrated on February 13 every year.  The aim of the day is to raise awareness among the public and the media about the importance of radio, to ensure the availability of radio information to decision makers and to strengthen international cooperation and mutual exchange of views and information among radio broadcasters.

In 2014, the 36th session of the UNESCO General Conference declared 13th February as World Radio Day.  In 2011, following a proposal by Spain’s Academia Española de Radio, based on a feasibility study conducted by UNESCO, UNESCO’s Executive Council recommended the declaration of World Radio Day to the General Assembly.  Note that on 13 February 1946, the United Nations’ own radio station began its journey.[1]

Radio is a mass media in the world which has more reach than any other mass media.  It is recognized as both a powerful communication tool and a cost-effective medium.  Wireless has no substitute for reaching remote communities and vulnerable populations (populations with low literacy rates, persons with disabilities, women, youth, and those living in poverty).  At the same time, it is a forum for people’s participation in public debate irrespective of the level of institutional education.  Moreover, wireless has a strong and specific role in emergency communication and disaster relief.  Today, the trend of homogenization of various media has increased, so wireless services are also adapting to new forms of technology, emerging in different forms such as broadband internet, mobile phones and tablets.  Despite this, it is said that nearly 1 billion people around the world still do not have access to wireless service.

However, every year World Radio Day is celebrated with a theme.  And that theme is decided by UNESCO. This year’s theme for World Radio Day is Radio: A Century Informing, Entertaining and Educating.

Once this medium was our only form of entertainment.  Many things may be lost in the course of time.  But some affection, some love is never lost.  If not, pushing the crowd of many memories, he becomes a poem and says, ‘I am your past.’  Whom you left far far away.  I didn’t leave you because I love you, I gave my all effortlessly, I built your past, present.  Then I arranged your future.  I didn’t want anything in return.  But why do you neglect it?  All around your friends now.  Am I none of yours?  I was not – is anyone?

Honestly, he was my someone.  So even if I forget many things, I can’t forget him.  He hugs me like my first love.  I still cling to him because I can’t forget him.

When I was a child, the other girls of the house, including my mother, used to sit together and listen to radio plays every night with the radio in the middle.  “Prafulla”, “Hungry for Septopas”, “Saheb”, “Naranarayan”, “Tapti”, “Rakta Kamal”, “Jhangha”, “Baikunther Khata”, “Khudith Pashan” are numerous plays.  Not only on Sundays, on Fridays at eight o’clock there was a radio play. On Wednesday evenings there was a journey.  What a performance. Those memories are true today.  Famous theater personalities Virendra Kishore Bhadra, Jagannath Bose, Ajitesh Banerjee, Vani Kumar, Urmimala Bose, Paran Banerjee, Shukla Banerjee etc.  And Mahalaya – Today and on the radio, Virendra Krishna Bhadra’s timeless creation “Mahishasuramardini” is heard by many.

So much for the local radio. But the wireless freaks didn’t stop here, they don’t stop there. They listen to various radio stations from the outside world. It can be called a royal hobby. This hobby is called DXing.

DXing, derived from dx, telegraphic shorthand for “distance” or “distant”, or other two-way radio communication.  Many DXers also attempt written verification of reception or communication, sometimes referred to as “QSLs” or “veries”.

DXing started in the early days of radio broadcasting.  Listeners would mail “reception reports” to radio broadcasting stations in hopes of receiving a written acknowledgment or a QSL card that served as official verification that they had heard a distant station.  Collecting these cards became popular with radio listeners in the 1920s and 1930s, and reception reports were often used by early broadcasters to measure the effectiveness of their transmissions.  Although international shortwave broadcasting is declining, DXing is still popular among dedicated shortwave listeners.  The pursuit of two-way communication between remote amateur radio operators is also a significant activity in the amateur radio hobby.

The fun of listening to programs in one’s mother tongue on foreign radio is different.  Some radio English programs are also quite popular.  Notable foreign radio stations include BBC, Voice of America, Deutsche Welle, CRY, Radio Moscow, Radio Japan, KBS, Radio Taiwan International, Radio France, Radio Romania International, Voice of Korea, Voice of Mongolia, Voice of Vietnam, Radio Slovakia,Radio Tehran etc. etc.

Many radio stations these days do Internet broadcasting in addition to radio broadcasting. But DXers prefer listening to the radio.  And when the hearing is interrupted, slap and jot the wireless device on the forehead. Due to the dominance of mobile and TV, the number of radio stations has decreased slightly, but there are still many listeners.  Those who listen know the fun of it.  Therefore, the United Nations UNESCO encourages the observance of Radio Day. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also used the radio medium to promote his government.  Regularly continuing the Man Ki Baat program.

Over the past few years, my relationship with Radio Romania International has deepened considerably. I can’t go a day without listening to Radio Romania International. Radio Romania International has become my soul mate. There was wireless, there is wireless and there will be wireless – maybe in a new form. Thank you.” (Bidhan Chandra Sanyal, West Bengal, India)

“Good day, I regularly listen to your English broadcast on shortwave radio over here in Scotland. I have been a keen shortwave enthusiast since I was a small boy when I first got a transistor radio back in the 80s, I can fondly remember when I first picked up a foreign station broadcasting in broken English, and I was so intrigued into what they were speaking about.

From then on I was hooked, I started to send reception reports to the various stations from around the world in hope to receive a QSL card and even get a wee mention on one of their English broadcasts whether it be Radio Exterior De Espana, HJBC Ecuador, Habana Cuba or another exotic far flung country, I couldn’t wait for the postman some days to see who would have sent me a QSL card.

Good days, Now with the internet it’s not the same, only a handful of stations remain broadcasting to the world on shortwave in English, I hope it’s not the demise of Shortwave as countries in Africa and even Australia still rely on regular broadcasts to remote areas were the internet is not practical for people to gather news and listen to music.

I’m 50 years old now and I still enjoy listening to the crackle of a English broadcast on Shortwave Radio here in Scotland. Happy Radio Day Romania. Kind Regards.” (Garry Crawford, Elgin, Scotland, UK)

World Radio Day February 2024.

“Dear sir, Radio has woven itself into the fabric of human history, leaving an indelible mark on society. From its inception to the digital age, radio has served as a vital tool for communication, entertainment, and education. Its ongoing utilitarian value is evident in its ability to reach remote areas with important information, provide emergency alerts, and deliver diverse programming to listeners worldwide.

Moreover, radio plays a crucial role in upholding democratic values by fostering freedom of expression and promoting public discourse. Through talk shows, interviews, and debates, radio provides a platform for individuals to voice their opinions, discuss pressing issues, and hold authorities accountable. In many countries, community radio stations serve as grassroots platforms for marginalized groups to share their perspectives and advocate for social change.

Furthermore, radio has historically been a catalyst for social movements, empowering communities to mobilize and advocate for their rights. Whether broadcasting revolutionary messages during times of political upheaval or amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, radio has been a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity and social justice.

In today’s digital landscape, radio continues to evolve, adapting to new technologies and changing listener preferences. Online streaming, podcasting, and social media integration have expanded the reach of radio, making it more accessible and interactive than ever before.

In essence, the ongoing utilitarian and democratic value of radio lies in its ability to inform, inspire, and unite people across borders and generations. As we navigate an increasingly complex world, radio remains a beacon of connectivity, resilience, and hope. Regards.” (Malik Allah Bachaya Khokhar. Sungat Radio Listeners Club. Muzaffargarh, Pakistan)

“Happy World Radio Day 2024 to you, your devoted team and listeners. Listening to radio can really be relaxing and informative as well. Listening to radio can really be relaxing and informative as well. I will get relaxed when I listen to the radio. In the evening time I go for a walk and listen to the radio through my cell phone.

Aside from playing music, radio stations also announce breaking news stories of interest. This is why motorists still like to stay tuned to radio as they drive — they stay entertained by the music and updated on traffic situations, current events, and other relevant occurrences.

Radio has always been great at setting the mood. You can tune into a station that features mostly pop songs if you like feeling upbeat (or if you need a peppy background as you clean the house). You can reminisce about old times when you flip to a station that plays old, classic love songs. And you can keep your cool on the road as you drive if you choose easy listening radio.

Because music easily taps into a person’s emotions, there’s no question that people rely on radio stations to bring them music that they love, that they feel inspired by, or that they simply love humming along to. Radio stays with you during good times and bad, always in the background, playing a soundtrack to your day — which is why it remains a much-loved medium today. Regards.” (Mitul Kansal, Haryana, India)

“Radio, from its beginning, the early days, it’s a device, nowadays in every form and format, but has kept its purpose, to inform, communicate, entertain and broadcast emergency news. Every radio station broadcasts its content regularly, music, drama, news, political issues, programs with religious content, learning new things, even languages. Radio sets can cost low or be more costly, you can find every size and function, with battery powered ones, and small radio sets, you can take them where you like, be informed about everything, mostly important about emergency issues, and also be entertained, during your free time. Radio broadcasts help in spreading democratic values, freedom of speech, spreading solidarity among minor communities, solidarity for immigrants, people in need, religious minorities. With as low as five euros, you can buy a radio set, and have the whole world in your hand, listen to all broadcast stations around the world, be informed. This is the future of radio its multiuse and multi features, but one must not forget its origins. Formats of radio listening such as podcasts, internet radio, satellite radio, drm and dab +. Radio, its past was golden, its present innovative and multi-functional, its future, still to be written, and yet so many things to promote and broadcast. Wishing all the best to all at Radio Romania International and all Radio Romania listeners around the globe. Greetings from Malta.” (Adrian Micallef, Malta)

“RADIO: A DAILY COMPANION

“Is there a typhoon? ”

“It’s now the age of fiber optics and you are still into that?”

In several instances, I remember these two particular reactions I got upon seeing  me still lugging around and  listening avidly to my portable transistor radio. So, who still really listens to the radio?  What does it still offer us in this age of artificial intelligence?

I frequently listen to the AM band. So, these are the usual programs that I hear which, maybe, is true to any part of the world at present. Aside from the usual traffic and weather reports, prime time slots are commonly rented out to the following: Herbal medicine or beauty products vendors selling their non-approved, no therapeutic-proven health items. Political parties and religious denominations to keep their presence with their constituents and congregants. Aside from the distracted anchors, who sometimes give us the wrong date, day and time, there are the endless commercials from local businesses selling their own individual wares. With the above reality of the radio nowadays, who among us still willingly listens to the radio? For me, listening to the radio is very mentally challenging. From the AM bands, I go to the SW (Short Wave) frequency bands. There are still serious SW stations that conduct various contests whereby they give out questions and topics wherein interested listeners like me who participate are usually given reading materials which, in time, I came to cherish by reading and rereading them. These are my so-called ” Books from the Air.” Where in the world can one still receive a book coming from the air? It is possible by listening to the radio, specifically in the SW frequency bands. From time to time, I can also get to listen to the hypnotic Number Stations.  Listening to the mysterious recitation of number groups accompany me in my long walks and as I also think through things in my life. That’s all I can say about listening to the radio nowadays.” (Allan S. Fenix, City of Naga, Philippines)

“Radio talks about people. Radio education is the gateway to consciousness and knowledge. Radio talks about building a beautiful life. Improves humanity. Radio makes real people by improving people’s lifestyle. This radio is my teacher, and soul. Respect and love to all listeners on  World  Radio  Day.” (Debashish Gope, West Bengal, India)

“World Radio Day is observed on 13th February every year. We celebrate the power of radio as a medium for information, entertainment, and education. Let’s appreciate the role that radio plays in our lives and the impact it has on communities around the world.”

Radio has the power to reach people in remote and underserved areas, giving voice to the voiceless.

Every day, every hour and every minute, the radio has been the best friend of people all around the globe by providing them with all-time entertainment.

Importance of Radio in today’s world: In countries where free expression is suppressed, access to technology is expensive or illiteracy rates are high, radio continues to play an important role in information sharing.

Radio broadcasts can provide real-time information, broadcasted 24 hours a day to provide the most recent updates to listeners. Stations have the ability to reach across borders and become a source of information where reliable news is scarce. When access to the internet is blocked and phone lines are cut, people can still search the airwaves for trustworthy sources. Even electricity is not a necessity for battery operated and hand-cranked radios.

Radio remains one of the best communication tools for the rural poor. It is ideal for low-income populations and sparsely-populated areas since radios are affordable and broadcasts can reach a wide audience. In countries where access to the internet is limited and illiteracy rates are high, radio stations play a major role in sharing news and educational information.

The last decade has seen a dramatic increase in radio stations across Africa, especially locally-run community stations. While new technologies such as satellite, online and cell-phone radio are increasing, none have reached the simplicity and effectiveness of traditional radio. In Kenya 87% of those surveyed had radios at home, 71% had a phone and only 11% could access the internet at home.

Radio journalists are at risk of harassment, intimidation and physical threats for their work. Stations around the world have had their signals blocked, their licenses to broadcast revoked and have been the target of attacks. Violations such as those below demonstrate that radio remains a powerful tool in disseminating information and are perceived as threats by some governments. Somalia and China are examples of countries where the authorities have taken steps to silence radio broadcasts.

Despite the fact that radio broadcasting puts both journalists and the stations they work for at risk, they continue to exist because there is a readership that values their news and information. Radio continues to be a widely used medium for reporting both local and international news. Advances in technology may have led to the emergence of a broad range of media outlets and platforms, but it has also made the radio more accessible for populations that lack access to other means of information technology, which is why it is still very much relevant today.” (Ashok Kansal, Haryana, India)