News

Participants and facilitators in the training posing for a group photo

The University of Rwanda College of Education (UR-CE) is set to bring its long-anticipated campus radio to life, a milestone made possible through the support of the TELLS project. With the completion of a comprehensive training program, a dedicated team of students and staff are now ready to operate the station, equipped with the skills and knowledge to produce content that will engage and inform the campus community.

The five-day training, led by facilitators from the University of Rwanda including Athanase Munyarugendo, Acting Director of Radio Salus, and Ignatius Kabagambe, Division Manager of Communication, Alumni, and Internationalization, provided participants with valuable insights into the world of radio production. They gained both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in a range of essential areas, preparing them for the responsibilities of running a campus radio station.

Participants gained insights into the vital role campus radio can play in connecting students, staff, and faculty, fostering a sense of community, and enhancing internal communication. The training focused on equipping the team with the ability to produce content that speaks directly to a university audience, addressing topics and issues that resonate with students and staff alike.

In addition to understanding the significance of campus radio, participants developed practical skills that are essential for creating professional, engaging broadcasts. They gained knowledge in scriptwriting for radio, mastering the art of crafting clear and concise scripts for news reporting , interviews, and talk-shows. These skills ensure that the content produced will be both informative and captivating, tailored to the unique needs of a campus setting.

Voice and presentation skills were another key component of the training. Participants worked on developing their on-air presence, learning how to modulate their voices, control pacing, and deliver content clearly and confidently. This part of the program was particularly important for creating engaging broadcasts that capture the attention of the audience.

On the technical side, participants were introduced to the equipment that will power the campus radio studio. They gained hands-on experience with microphones, mixers, and recording software, learning how to manage sound quality, edit audio, and produce a polished broadcast. These technical skills will be essential in ensuring that the radio station delivers high-quality programming.

Before wrapping- up the training, participants also applied everything they had learned in a live broadcast simulation. They took to the airwaves, producing a mock broadcast while receiving real-time feedback to help refine their skills. The experience provided them with the confidence and competence needed for live broadcasting, setting the stage for the radio’s official launch.

Trainees simulating live broadcast in the studio with facilitator Ignatius Kabagambe as a guest

Facilitators Munyarugendo and Kabagambe expressed their satisfaction with the progress made by the participants. Munyarugendo, particularly impressed by the passion and potential displayed by some of the students, encouraged them to continue developing their skills. Highlighting future opportunities, he revealed that the best performers have a chance to collaborate with Radio Salus to report on the College activities and its proximity.

Kabagambe reflected on the significance of the training. "This program has provided participants with an intensive, hands-on foundation that surpasses what many of us experienced in our early mass communication studies. The skills gained here are essential for the success of the campus radio, empowering participants to work independently while aligning with the broader mission of the university." He emphasized the importance of reflection, continuous engagement, and teamwork in mastering the craft of radio production.

Dr. Mathias Nduwingoma, Coordinator of CODeL and TELLS, closed the training with an inspiring message, highlighting the importance of the campus radio as a tool for communication. He urged participants to take ownership of the radio, emphasizing that it would not only be a valuable communication tool but also a platform for students to voice their ideas and contribute to the university’s vibrant community. "Your work here will lay the foundation for a strong communication culture at UR-CE," he said.

Dr.Mathias Nduwingoma, TELLS project Coordinator and Director of CODeL during his closing remarks

The training concluded with the presentation of certificates to both the facilitators and participants, recognizing their efforts and commitment. With a well-trained team and a fully equipped studio, UR-CE is now ready to operationalize its Campus Radio, which will serve as a key communication tool for engaging the campus community and sharing vital information.

Story by

NTIRANDEKURA Schadrac
PRO, UR-CE