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17 Dec. Well begun is half done, they say. So it was with Community Radio SARANG 107.8FM, at St Aloysius College. The 25 ladies who attended the community radio SARANG 107.8FM’s Baseline Survey and Capacity Building Workshop were quick to pledge their support and loyalty to their radio.

While sharing their expectations, Ms Sujatha said, “We had never entered this big College’ campus, so far. But because of Radio SARANG, we entered not only this college, but also the class rooms, and we sat with Father’s (Mass Communication) students, learnt with them, became friendly. I have children like these kids; these are like my own children,” said she!

Ms Zubeida, an active angandawadi worker said, “Many people in our area of Harekala listen to radio SARANG without knowing it is SARANG! But they enjoy the Tulu and Beary programs. I personally can’t receive the signals, since my house is on a low-area.” She pleaded the “authorities” to increase the signals!

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It was a six-day workshop to test waters and build bridges. Dept of Science & Technology (DST) is keen on using science in day to day life to improve health, employing scientific means and temperament. To this end, it is employing community radios.
Ms Ujjwala of National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC, a part of DST) has taken this objective of NCSTC has taken her job seriously. In association with C.o.L – CEMCA, it has shortlisted Community Radio SARANG 107.8FM to be the platform for this novel venture, which is in its third phase.

Community Radio SARANG 107.8FM took up its part very seriously. It mobilised the community women from Bajal, Padil, Pakkaladka, Harekala, Kotekar, Ullal, Permannur, etc under three areas of Bajal, Ullal and Harekala. Twenty Five women joined this workshop enthusiastically. Initially Mr Kartik introduced the baseline survey. Mr Pasha went all out of his way to make a deep impact on the women and help their learning.
At the end of the workshop, community women were full of beans. They said, it is their radio, and they will make sure it serves the community. They will gather women and children to listen to radio in their villages, and also produce programs based on health, hygiene, and day to day issues.

At the valedictory, the Director (Yours Truly) expressed his gladness at the overwhelming support received by women and Post Graduate students of Mass Communication (MCMS) at St Aloysius College. He outlined his vision for the Community Radio SARANG 107.8FM, and assured them every bit of support in making this truly a community venture.
The homely workshop was an extremely effective mela. The MCMS students gelled very well with community women. They, together produced radio programs on anemia and women’s health and hygiene. It was really a “SARANG” – beautiful blending of all hues and colours of Mangalorean community – women and youngsters of all communities coming, leaning and working together!

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