World Radio Day 2024 is being observed at a time when the industry is facing stiff competition from other media.Â
From a technological perspective, Social Media and Internet Radio all utilize radio waves or wireless communication in some form as their backbone to transmit and receive messages. To think about a world without radio communications is to imagine the absence of Social Media, Online newspapers and Internet Radio.Â
Radio broadcasting in Guyana dates back to the 1920s and, with technology, has evolved from having been a wired connection in people’s homes to being publicly accessible on medium wave, shortwave and FM.Â
The production of relevant content for entertainment, education in the widest sense, and information is at the centre of radio’s relevance in the context of mobility and cost-effectiveness. The production of audio content, whether pre-recorded or Live, remains the cheapest and most immediate means of mass communication for both the stations and listeners. With radio, listeners do not need to use the Internet or worry about poor or non-existent connections.Â
In light of increasing competition from Internet-based media, the time has come for all relevant stakeholders in Guyana to examine ways of ensuring the viability and sustainability of radio. The Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA), Telecommunications Agency, advertising agencies, private sector organisations, and technical and non-technical personnel in radio need to hold an annual conference to dispassionately examine the state of the industry.Â
Indeed, such an engagement should become an annual event that is eventually extended to the rest of the Caribbean.
Such a forum will allow all stakeholders to examine production techniques, technologies, revenue models, training opportunities and cross-border collaboration in the production of compelling content.Â
The radio broadcasting industry in Guyana must also see itself as a leader in recording and preserving history. Over the decades, much invaluable material had been produced but later relegated literally to the dustbin. This is no longer an option with modern storage technologies.Â
Today, the Guyana Press Association salutes all those who have contributed and continue to play various roles in Guyana’s radio industry.Â
Long Live Radio!Â
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