RADIO IS STILL KEY TO JAMAICA’S CULTURE!

With music of every genre, news, entertainment, topical issues and enlightening conversations, radio continues to play an important role in information sharing and keeping your company 24 hours per day.

In recognition of the continued relevance of radio in our everyday lives, the RJRGLEANER Communications Group is hosting Radio Week, a week-long staging of activities with the objective of cementing the fact that radio remains a powerful tool in reaching out to the masses, even in this age of transformation.

According to Dennis Howard, general manager for radio services, radio is still relevant in the current age of communication explosion and social media.

“Radio is still very relevant due to its reach, its cultural importance … and its effectiveness in communicating ideas and message-changing behavior,” Howard said.

“People tell you how radio continues to be useful in their daily life, informing, educating, entertaining and helping to build their capacities. Radio programs reach people on site,” he added.

The arrival of television, Internet, mobile phones and other forms of fast communication posed a threat to radio. Unlike the new kids on the block, radio is an audio medium and doesn’t have the advantage of visuals. Yet, it survived the onslaught and is flourishing with the advent of FM across the world in developing and developed countries alike.

Presenters to share experiences during week of activities

Activities for Radio Week began on Sunday, October 1, 2017 and will continue through to Saturday, October 7. Participating stations during the week-long activities include RJR 94 FM, FAME 95 FM HITZ 92 FM, POWER 106 FM and MUSIC 99 FM.

Some of the activities for the week will include broadcasts in the RJRGLEANER Communications Group’s courtyard at 32 Lyndhurst Road and regular conversations aimed at informing listeners about the rich and diverse culture of radio. Former radio presenters will also share their experiences while addressing issues relating to the changes in the media landscape over the years.

School tours have also been organised with students from primary and tertiary-level institutions. Persons will also have the opportunity to view the mini exhibition on display.

Dennis Howard, general manager for radio services, is optimistic that following the culmination of the week of activities, persons will be more aware of the continued importance of radio as the main information and entertainment source; there will be an increase in interest from the younger listenership; and that there will be an increase in support from advertisers.

The RJRGLEANER Communications Group is the home of Jamaica’s largest, most exciting and most influential electronic, print and digital media platforms, including Television Jamaica Limited (TVJ), The Gleaner, The STAR, RJR 94 FM, Power 106 FM, FAME 95 FM, HITZ 92 FM, Music 99 FM, 1spotmedia, RETV, JNN and TVJ Sports Network.

These are brands with international appeal with the objective of bringing you the best in credible news, current affairs, human-interest stories, sports, family entertainment, and great music.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com