Thirteenth February every year is a date proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, UNESCO to celebrate radio broadcast, improve international cooperation among radio broadcasters and encourage decision-makers to create and provide
access to information through radio, including community radios.
The event which was first observed in 2012, also aims at drawing attention to the unique value of radio broadcasting which remains the medium to reach the widest audience, and is currently taking up new technological forms and devices.
UNESCO encourages all countries to celebrate this Day by undertaking activities with diverse partners, such as national, regional and international broadcasting associations and organizations,
non-governmental organizations, media organizations, outlets as well as the public at large.
Speaking on the essence of the day, the Dean Faculty of Social Sciences Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Professor Stella Okunna who is also the Director UNIZIK FM, regretted the rate at which violence and intolerance increase in today’s society, calling on political leaders and radio professionals to be more pro active in promoting peace and tolerance through radio broadcasting.
She said that the theme for this year’s celebration is apt, as it campaigns against violence of all kinds including election violence.
The Special Assistant to the Governor on community liaison, comrade Obi Ochije-Modilim opined that radio professionals in this part of the world should always try to strengthen diversity, peace and development through their broadcasting for a better society.
Also Speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, Dr. Vera Okechukwu, said Radio is still the most dynamic, reactive and engaging medium, adapting to twenty-first century changes and offering new ways to interact and participate, as it provides diversity of views and voices needed to address the same issues.
Correspondent Emmanuel Okonkwo who sampled people’s opinion on the celebration, reports that the theme for this year’s celebration is “Dialogue, Tolerance and Peace”.
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