World Radio Day spotlights radio’s global impact and TUT’s broadcasting success

World Radio Day highlights radio’s global impact in education development and democracy, while TUT’s Tshwane FM and TUT FM shape future broadcasters and connect students to industry opportunities.

Tshwane FM Station Manager, Tebogo Magubane, with the Telkom Radio Station of the Year Award they won late in 2025. World Radio Day, established by UNESCO in 2011, is commemorated annually on 13 February to recognise the power of radio as a medium that informs, educates and connects communities worldwide.

The 2026 theme, “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a tool, not a voice,” is a powerful reminder that while technology is transforming how news is gathered and shared, it must remain guided by human ethics, judgment, and responsibility.

Radio, one of the most accessible and trusted forms of communication, is a powerful platform in developed and developing countries, reaching remote communities, bridging language barriers and providing critical information during emergencies. In many parts of the world, radio is still the most reliable source of news, public education and civic engagement.

Sharing his personal love and passion for radio, Tebogo Magubane, Tshwane FM Station Manager, said: "On World Radio Day, we celebrate the one medium that refuses to be silenced, outpaced or outdone. Radio is instant, intimate and unstoppable.  In a world obsessed with screens, radio still wins hearts through sound. It is real, it is raw and it is always on."

Beyond information, radio plays a significant educational role. It supports distance learning, promotes literacy and provides a platform for dialogue on social, economic and political issues. Educational programmes, talk shows and community discussions contribute to informed citizenship and lifelong learning.

At TUT, this impact is reflected through its campus radio stations, Tshwane FM and TUT FM, which provide practical training platforms for students in journalism, media studies and communication to gain hands-on experience in broadcasting, production, content creation and newsroom operations.

One of TUT FM’ flagship programmes, Plug-A-Graduate has become a strategic platform that connects final-year students and graduates with potential employers. The talk show profiles student talent, showcases skills and facilitates direct engagement with industry representatives. Through this platform, several students have secured internships, workplace exposure and employment opportunities.

Another impactful programme, Alumni Talk hosted on Tshwane FM, brings successful TUT graduates back on air to share their career journeys, industry insights and advice. The show strengthens alumni relations and creates networking pathways that contribute to mentorship and job placements for current students.

From Pitori to the World, the 21-year-old Tshwane FM has been on the up-and-up in recent years, including winning the Station of the Year award at the 2025 Telkom Radio Awards, industry recognition, strong listener engagement, and the development of graduates who have progressed into mainstream broadcasting. The station continues to position itself as a launchpad for young talent.

TUT FM also plays a significant role in student development and community engagement. The station provides students with additional opportunities to refine their broadcasting skills while serving as a platform for campus news, educational content and student dialogue. Its growing listenership and consistent programming have strengthened its presence within the University community.

Several prominent radio personalities are alumni of TUT, including T Bose Mokwele, whose career includes work at Metro FM and Kaya FM; Mpumalanga commercial station Rise FM breakfast show anchor, The Big ZillOnAir; Munghana Lonene FM’s Given Mabunda, as well as Power FM’s Tshegohaco Moagi. Their achievements reflect the quality of training and practical exposure provided at the University.

As the world marks World Radio Day, TUT celebrates the enduring relevance of radio and reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the next generation of broadcasters through Tshwane FM and TUT FM.