On-Air: Celebrating the Medium of Radio
Each year on February 13, we observe ‘World Radio Day’ to commemorate the enduring presence of radio across the globe. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) proclaimed the event as a way to remember and celebrate the medium that stood the test of time.
Since Guglielmo Marconi sent the first signals across an open sea in 1896, radio has increasingly become an important medium for broadcasting information and as a source of entertainment. Over the hundred years of broadcasting, radio has become an integral part of many people’s lives. It plays an instrumental part in fostering dialogue and shaping the societal perspective on culture and diversity. It enjoys a far-reaching and widespread impact, connecting communities of various socioeconomic backgrounds.
Radio first became familiar to the Indian audience with the launch of ‘The Radio Club of Bombay’ in 1923. With the establishment of the ‘All India Radio’ or ‘Akashvani’, the radio began to reach more than 90% of the country’s population. It propelled Akashvani to become the world’s largest radio network.
How can World Radio Day be celebrated?
Students and teachers can engage in several activities to commemorate the significance of radio. The activities may help create an interactive and engaging environment in the classroom.
Create a mini radio station at school to engage and experience broadcasting stories.
The medium can also be used to create a platform for discussions on a variety of topics such as popular culture, climate change, peace and tolerance etc.
Learn more about radio by visiting a local radio station
Understand the significance of radio in your demographic.
Speak with a local radio jockey to understand their journey in broadcasting.
The activities can help remind the students of the medium's significance and unique ability to inform, educate and entertain across divides of language, religion and nationalities.