By Natasha Kamakoko,
The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) is building radio stations in universities to provide students with practical content production experience and to offer content producers access to affordable studios.
Head of International Relations and Corporate Communications at MACRA, Limbani Nsapato, confirmed the development in an interview with Malawi News Agency (Mana), saying the initiative was launched in 2024 and that, so far, a number of campus radio stations have been completed.
According to Nsapato, the universities that now have campus radio stations include Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), St Luke in Malosa, Malawi Institute of Journalism (MIJ) in Mzuzu, Shareworld University, Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mzuzu University (NZUNI) and Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resource (LUANAR).
“Each campus radio station has a production studio and on-air studio, fully equipped with everything needed to create and broadcast radio programmes,” said Nsapato in an interview with Mana.
MACRA also wants to build more radio stations in other universities, according to Nsapato, the benefiting institutions have committed to putting in place systems to ensure the long term sustainability of the radio stations.
At LUANAR, the campus radio station is expected to play a big role in improving the skills of students, especially those in the Department of Agriculture Education and Development Communication.
LUANAR Head of Department, Japhet Mchakulu said the radio station will help students gain practical media skills while also reaching out to surrounding communities with educational programmes on agriculture, development, the environment, nutrition, and health.
He also extended his appreciation to MACRA, saying the radio station is a valuable addition to the university’s training efforts.
“Our students will now receive practical, hands-on training in radio production and broadcasting. We are very thankful to MACRA for this particular gift, as it enhances our academic programs and strengthens the skills our students need to be competitive in the broadcasting industry,” said Mchakulu.
