AN APPRAISAL OF THE ROLE OF RADIO AS VEHICLE FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

ABSTRACT

The objective of the study was to underscore an appraisal of the role of radio as vehicle for social development using Speed F.M Benin as a case study. The study specifically set three objectives as reflected in Chapter One of this research. The study was anchored on Agenda Setting Theory. The purposive and random sampling methods were used to draw responses from respondents. The questionnaire served as the research Instrument.  As regards the survey, the population of the study consists of 4500 students from the various Departments in University of Benin, Ekehuan Campus; Departments of Fine Arts, Department of Theatre Arts, Department of Mass Communication and Institute of Education, three hundred and sixty seven (367) respondents which cut across students from the various Departments in University of Benin, Ekehuan Campus comprised the sample size. Data gathered in the study were analyzed in tables using frequency and percentage. The study revealed that radio serves as societal Watchdog / Surveillance which factors into the social development process. It disseminates information to larger percentage of the people irrespective of their location and through radio, people can listen and participate in discussion of national and international issues (Phoning programmes), thereby promoting the level of awareness of the people on socio-political and economic issues. Also, the study revealed that Speed FM has been able to engage listeners in participatory programmes that analyzes issues related to societal development. However, the study recommends that there is an adequate need to produce programmes that can contribute to societal development. Management of radio stations should also endeavor to consider the taste of listeners so that they would be able to carry the audience along.