ZBC to launch educational heritage-based radio station

Source: ZBC to launch educational heritage-based radio station – herald

Amos Mpofu

The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) is preparing to launch a new heritage-based educational radio station, following extensive consultations with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.

The station, expected to begin operations in either the second or third quarter of the year, will be ZBC’s seventh radio outlet and will be based in Montrose, Bulawayo.

This development was confirmed by ZBC director of Radio Services, Albert Chekayi, during an interview at the just-ended Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Bulawayo. He said this development is a reflection of the Second Republic’s commitment to inclusive national development.

“This educational broadcasting channel is a brainchild of the Minister of Information, Dr Jenfan Muswere, who has placed strong emphasis on heritage-based broadcasting. That’s why we’re transforming Montrose into the home of heritage broadcasting,” he said.

He confirmed that most of the groundwork has been completed, and only a few elements remain before the station goes live.

“We’re finalising the station’s name and other small matters, but recruitment of presenters has already begun,” he said.

The station will broadcast in indigenous languages, in line with ZBC’s vision of promoting cultural inclusivity.

Chekayi said the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education will provide the academic content, while ZBC will complement this with entertainment, life skills, and cultural programming.

“Education is a sensitive field that must be handled by experts. Our presenters will not deliver academic lessons, that’s the Ministry’s role. We’re here to complement with cultural and life-coaching content,” he said, expressing gratitude to the Ministry of Information for its continued support.

The national broadcaster took advantage of the ZITF to conduct public auditions for aspiring radio and television personalities.

“We conducted auditions on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (last week) to scout for talent for the new educational station, which is being set up in Montrose. This station will operate in partnership with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education,” said Chekayi.

The auditions were open to all Zimbabweans with a national identification and a passion for broadcasting. Chekayi said the initiative also aimed to fill talent gaps within ZBC, with Nambya set to soon be introduced as the eighth language on Khulumani FM. The language will also feature on the new educational station.

“These are not just educational programmes, they are cultural lessons too,” he said.

Commenting on the unique format of the auditions at ZITF, Chekayi said, “This was the first time we held public auditions at such a large-scale event. Typically, we do this at our offices. But this time, we took advantage of the ZITF platform to reach a broader audience.”