Collaboration with Local Broadcasting

Three representatives from Megaphone Radio, a local broadcasting in Pidie, came to the office two days ago. I was impressed with their professionalism. They were pleased with the idea of using local radio in improving community awareness on education and agreed with the proposed alternative forms of broadcasting will be used. Evenmore they also proposed different ideas on it.

The manager, Syaiful, is a good man. As a manager, he listened carefully the goal and purpose of the colaboration. Shortly, after a lively discussion, we agreed about the various alternative we will use. At least there are three program will be broadcasted by the radio.

First, talk show. At least once a week we will invite people from various institutions to talk about issues in education quality improvement. They can be The Head of Education Office, Representative from Education Board, or even teachers, supervisors, or parents. This program is purposed to build and develop community' awareness and understanding about issues in education. This is a prerequisite needed to build their commitment to support and willing to contribute in any education program in all levels. For example, through this program, people will gain a comprehensive information about BOS fund (Support for School Operational), the role of school commitee, how to actualize the concept of children right at school and how parent and community can contribute in school efforts, etc. The twelve District Facilitators and 24 Cluster Resource Persons will also become resource persons for this talk show.

The second is life broadcasting from the field. Because our program is purposed to revitalise the school cluster system, we will broadcast activities in the cluster and schools. The KKG (Teachers Working Group) meetings, the KKKS (School Principal Working Group) meetings, School Committee meetings and various activities conducted in the clusters will be broadcasted directly from the field. With this approach, information and experiences shared in the KKG and or KKKS meeting will disseminate to other clusters across Pidie District.

The third is Radio Bulletin. Actually this idea was from Marzuki, one of the radio broadcaster. Enthusiaticaly he described that through Radio Bulletin we can share information about activities will be conducted within the on-going week as a reminder for school and cluster communities; topics will be discussed in the talk show; and also accomodate people curiosity about many things related to the School Based Management, Joyful Learning and or Community Participation.

So far, I am happy with our initial meeting. I look forward to seeing their proposal. Hope they have common understanding and committed to actualize the ideas. It is obvious that Radio Broadcasting has a very important role in empowering people. Radio can become a strategic media in creating Community Learning for Children.