RADIO

This study was carried out to evaluate the impact of radio in propagating Edo culture amongst students in the University of Benin. The aim of this study was to examine students’ perception of radio programmes propagation of Edo culture among students. Agenda-setting theory was used as the theoretical framework, while data were collected through an online questionnaire administered to a purposive sample size of 168 Mass Communication students across various academic levels at the University of Benin, Ekehuan Campus. Descriptive statistics tools such as tables, frequency counts, and simple percentages, were used to analyse the obtained data. The findings obtained revealed that the majority of the students are exposed to Edo cultural programmes on radio, while some acknowledge their significance particularly in learning about Edo history and customs. These programmes were perceived as effective in motivating cultural participation and inclusivity. Music was also found to be one of the most preferred radio contents among students, overshadowing cultural and educational programmes. Despite this, there is strong support for the increased inclusion of Edo cultural content on radio. The study concludes that radio remains an indispensable medium for cultural education preservation, and revival. Yet, to fully realise its potential in propagating Edo culture among students, programme quality, content relevance, and audience engagement must be improved. The study, therefore, recommends the following: collaboration between broadcasters and cultural experts to develop engaging cultural content, scheduling programmes at convenient times for students, employing interactive storytelling techniques, integrating cultural education within academic institutions, instituting government policies to mandate indigenous cultural programming, and conducting regular audience evaluations to improve programme effectiveness.

This study investigates the impact of university radio stations on campus community development, using UNIBEN 100.1FM as a case study. It explores the extent to which the station fosters student engagement, promotes academic and cultural growth, and supports social interaction within the University of Benin. The study is guided by five core objectives: to assess the level of student engagement and listenership, examine the station’s influence on academic and cultural life, identify the challenges hindering its effectiveness, evaluate the role of digital technologies in content delivery, and analyze how programming strategies align with campus development needs. Anchored on the Participatory Communication Theory, which emphasizes inclusive, dialogic communication, the research employs a descriptive survey method and gathers quantitative data through structured questionnaires administered to 100 undergraduate students. The findings reveal a high awareness of the station (93%) but lower levels of regular engagement and interactive participation. UNIBEN 100.1FM significantly contributes to students' academic interests and social cohesion, yet its full potential is hampered by limited funding, low student participation, and infrastructural constraints. Nonetheless, digital integration via online streaming and social media has extended the station’s reach. The study concludes that while UNIBEN 100.1FM plays a pivotal role in enriching campus life, deliberate reforms in programming, funding, and interactivity are needed to maximize its developmental impact.