By Iqra Ahmed

Darjeeling, Feb. 14, 2019: Salesian College Sonada celebrated its second World Radio Day (WRD) on February 13. The program was organized by Radio Salesian 90.8 FM with WRD 2019 theme: Dialogue, tolerance and peace.

The WRD UNESCO event launched in 2011 marks a time when people around the world celebrate radio and how it shapes our lives.

Radio Journalist Bryan who is also HoD Computer Science anchored the hour long program presented by radio journalists of Radio Salesian 90.8 FM – Voice of the Hills.

The program consisted of informative talks, video presentation on community radio feedback from listeners in Mirik, Sukhiapokri, Pokriabong, and Sonada, as well as a cultural fusion dance and panel discussion on the community radio programs and how each RJ packages it.

Radio Jockeys talked about their shows such as Yuva Awaaz, Stories Behind Music, Charcha Paricharcha, Naulo Bihani and Samarpan among others which are broadcast on radio.

RJs shared their own thoughts on student involvement in the campus/community radio and encouraged and enlightened the college community to actively participate in the programs.

The program started with a brief introduction on WRD by RJ intern Puravi Gurung and the program was later concluded with a fusion dance by her.

Radio Salesian founder director Fr C M Paul being honored
Radio Salesian Director and Vice Principal Father C.M. Paul said: “Radio informs, transforms and unites us. It brings together people and communities from all backgrounds to foster positive dialogue for change. More specifically, radio is the perfect medium to counter the appeals for violence and the spread of conflict, especially in regions potentially more exposed to such realities.”

“Radio programming can also build tolerance and surpass the differences separating groups by uniting them under common goals and causes, like ensuring education for one’s children, providing information on job opportunities or addressing local health concerns,” the Salesian priest added.

In a surprise item, Radio Salesian program coordinator RJ Samir asked senior faculty member and campus coordinator Terence Mukhia to hand over a plaque of appreciation to Radio Salesian founder-director Father Paul and honour hm with a shawl and scarf.

Radio Salesian, is the first college camps/community radio in Bengal and entire northeast India with daily 12 hour broadcast since December 2016, and 24 x 7 web radio presence from March 2018.