Tim Modise reminded graduates at the Wits Radio Academy of the importance of their work as radio broadcasters within their communities. Photo: Emelia Motsai.
Community media has an vital role to play in helping policy makers understand what it is their constituencies want and need.
This is according to veteran radio station journalist, Tim Modise who was speaking at the Wits Radio Academy graduations yesterday. Modise encouraged the graduates not think lightly of their roles in community radio stations as the work they do is important.
“The local communities we serve need our services. It’s clear that from the service delivery protests that are happening at a very, very local level that there are policy problems,” said Modise. Modise also reminded the graduates and guests that excelling as in community radio would also help them later on in their careers and distinguish them from others as they have “more empathy and understanding on how to cover community stories.”
“The African story is waiting to be told, it can only be told by skilled and talented people like you,” said Modise
It was joy all around when as Director of Wits Radio Academy, Professor Franz Kruger, handed out certificate to graduates. Pictured with him is KayDee Moalusi, left.
Director of Wits Radio Academy, Prof Franz Kruger said the aim of the academy was not only to equip students with the right skills to work in radio but they also wanted to produce “smart radio broadcasters” who can critically engage with issues.
One of the graduates Keadimilwe (KayDee) Moalusi, said one of her favourite parts of the course was learning about the history of radio. Even though she was already on radio Moalusi said she joined the course to “empower herself”. Since enrolling in the course she has been promoted to the host of the afternoon drive show at HopeFM.
The Radio Academy has been running for four years and 17 students from community stations all over South Africa graduated this year.
