MACRA Launches Campus Radio Project in 10 Universities

By Fareedah Muheya

In a groundbreaking move to revolutionize media education, the Malawi Communication Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has unveiled a campus radio initiative across 10 universities nationwide. This ambitious project is set to empower students with hands-on broadcasting experience and bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world media practice. By integrating these radio stations into university life, MACRA aims to create vibrant, informed communities and foster a new generation of skilled media professionals. The initiative promises to enhance local engagement and provide invaluable practical training for future media leaders.

Speaking at the launch, MACRA Managing Director Daud Suleiman emphasized that the project seeks to equip students with essential broadcasting skills without requiring them to leave campus for practical training. Suleiman highlighted that the initiative is designed to allow students to gain hands-on experience in media while still pursuing their academic studies.

He also pointed out that the campus radio stations will provide local communities surrounding the universities with a platform to promote and upscale their businesses. “By using the campus radio station, we expect these communities to stay informed about local events and enhance their economic activities through increased visibility,” Suleiman added.

The ultimate goal of the project, according to MACRA, is to create vibrant and well-informed communities that are more aware of developments in their areas.

The Vice Chancellor of Shareworld University, Theodora Mapemba Musamba, praised the project, noting that it is a major step forward for media training in Malawi. “The campus radio station will enhance practical learning for our students and add significant value to their overall media education,” she said. Musamba further highlighted that the radio station will serve as a vital tool in preparing students for the realities of the media industry, giving them the opportunity to engage with real-world content creation and management.

She added that, according to the university’s plans, the radio station will be operated under the Faculty of Languages and Communication. Musamba emphasized that this initiative will provide hands-on experience for students enrolled in the BSc in Mass Communication, a four-year program. She also mentioned that staff have already been hired for the radio station to support students and assist tutors in facilitating practical work.

When asked about the expected content and how the stations would sustain themselves, MACRA Board Member Ms. Stella Kalanda Chuthi explained that the authority envisions the stations producing programs focused on education, news, entertainment, and informative content. She added that these campus stations will generate their own revenue, particularly through advertisements, which will help fund their operations.

MACRA has allocated a budget of MK500 million for the campus radio project. The funding will be distributed across the participating universities, with each campus receiving up to MK50 million to support the development and operation of its radio station.