Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
HAVING begun broadcasting in 2020 as Zimbabwe’s first campus radio station, Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) Campus Radio is proving to be more than a platform for music and entertainment. It has become a dynamic training ground where students refine their broadcasting skills while serving the surrounding community.
Students are actively involved in programming, news gathering, production, presenting and technical operations, gaining hands-on experience that equips them to meet the demands of the media industry.
Media student Trevor Mbire said the opportunity to train at the campus radio station has strengthened his practical skills.
“I am a Media student at GZU, and I am happy that I am attached here at our campus radio. I have the opportunity to learn practically about broadcasting, and I have been on air on several occasions,” he said.
Evelyn Ngwena, who produces and presents the Morning Mix show, said the experience has built her confidence and sharpened her professional abilities.
“The experience has taught me to be confident, to develop interviewing skills and to interact effectively with the audience. I am confident that when I enter the industry, I will be fully prepared,” she said.
Director of GZU Campus Radio, Dr Golden Maunganidze, highlighted the importance of campus radio stations in bridging the gap between classroom theory and industry expectations.
“We thank the government for allowing universities to establish campus radio stations through licensing following the amendment of the Broadcasting Services Act. These stations have transformed the training of media students in Zimbabwe. The skills they acquire here enable them to integrate seamlessly into the industry and become professionals,” he said.
Beyond the university, the station plays a significant role in community engagement. By broadcasting programmes that address local development issues, cultural heritage, agriculture, health, environmental matters and youth empowerment, GZU Campus Radio has become a trusted voice in Masvingo.
A local listener commended the station’s impact.
“I listen to Great Zimbabwe University Campus Radio and I like their programming, even though it is mainly done by students. We receive important information through their agriculture, health, environment and weather programmes. These campus radios are very important as they also provide attachment opportunities for our children studying media,” the listener said.
To date, nine campus radio stations have been established across Zimbabwe, providing platforms for practical training and nurturing the next generation of media practitioners.
As campus broadcasting continues to expand, GZU Campus Radio stands as a testament to the transformative power of experiential learning in shaping future broadcasters.
