CR: A users guide to the Technology; a guide to the technology and technical parameters of community radio in India is authored by N. Ramakrishnan.
Published by United Nations Educational and Scientific Organisation (UNESCO), it is an excellent manual for potential community radio operators.
Apart from demystifying each piece of equipment found in a community radio station, the publication also discusses in detail its role and function within a wider social context, as also its advantages and disadvantages.
For others, who dare to be technically more adventurous, detailed notes on equipment are also provided.
An array of information like what equipment would one need to set up a community radio, and how much would it cost is also contained in it. Writing a foreword for the book, Jocelyne Josiah, advisor in communication and information for Asia, says: While there are many solutions that are available off the shelf, our main line of advice has been [that] costs depend on the context of the Community Radio Station you are trying to build.
Further she adds: We also strive to bear in mind the objectives of UNESCOs programme stressing promotion of community access and engagement, and the Action Plan of the World Summit on the Information Society, which emphasises values of inclusive and pluralist knowledge societies.
She feels that the success of a community radio station depends on the level of participation of a community, together with relevant programming.
Giving a piece of advice she says: Begin small and grow inch-by-inch with your community.
It is through localisation not only of content, but also of technology that may assist in accelerating the community radio movement in India and making the intentions of the government a live reality, which intends to establish 4,000 community radio stations by 2008.
Please see the attached file below for full version of the manual.
Source: UNESCO
|
