MODERN BROADCAST STUDIOS FOR TSHWANE RADIOS!

 In a milestone for Tshwane community broadcasting, the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) has officially handed over fully digitised broadcasting studios to TUT FM at the Tshwane University of Technology’s Soshanguve campus and Tshwane FM in Pretoria West.

The unveiling, held on the eve of the 69th anniversary of the historic 1956 Women’s March, was attended by senior government officials, industry partners, students, and community members.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong paid tribute to the women of 1956, including Ruth First and Mama Victoria Mxenge, linking their courage to the transformative power of community media today.

“These studios are more than just bricks, cables, and equipment,” Morolong told Ga-Rankuwa Mail.

“They are platforms of empowerment, spaces where communities see themselves reflected, where young people hone their skills, and where information is shared for the good of all.”

Morolong urged the stations to use the facilities to fight social challenges, particularly gender-based violence and femicide, and to create opportunities for women in broadcasting, not only as subjects of media content but as creators, editors, and decision-makers.

A commitment of innovation and access to technology

Representing the MDDA board, Phil Moiloa described the handover as a product of “long partnership, collaboration, and mutual commitment to advancing community media.”

He outlined the MDDA’s mandate – established in 2002 as a partnership between government and major media players – to promote diversity, development, and equitable access to media, especially for underserved communities.

TUT FM successfully applied for the 2023/2024 funding through what Moiloa described as a “rigorous and competitive” process, meeting strict compliance requirements including company registration, tax clearance, a valid ICASA license, and a BEE certificate.

“Investments like this ensure that community media remains relevant, competitive, and responsive to the needs of its local audiences in an age of rapid technological change,” Moiloa said.

MDDA-funded studios empower the next generation

The MDDA-funded studios are equipped with cutting-edge digital technology for better sound quality, faster production, and seamless integration with online platforms.

TUT FM, with over 30 years of service, and Tshwane FM, a vibrant campus-based station, both play vital roles as training grounds for young broadcasters, producers, and media professionals.

Morolong called on advertisers, local businesses, and community leaders to support the stations through listenership, content sharing, advertising, and mentorship.

“The strength of community media lies in the strength of its community,” he said.

MDDA hands over digitised broadcasting studios to TUT FM and Tshwane FM

“These studios are not the end of the journey – they are the beginning of a new chapter.”

With these upgrades, both stations are now better positioned to reach audiences on FM, online, mobile, and social media, ensuring that in the spirit of the women of 1956, no voice is left unheard.

Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Tshwane University of Technology, Professor Tinyiko Maluleke, was available to accept the good gesture from MDDA and encouraged that they should be used tokens of education for those aspiring to be in the broadcast space.