Giving a Voice to Women: Establishing the Community Radio Station 'Radio Nari Aawaj'
Nepal's media sector has made great advances in the past two decades, with the introduction of laws ensuring press freedom paving the way for private and community involvement in the media. Today, more than 11 television channels broadcast from Kathmandu, and over 237 radio stations operate within the country, including a substantial number of community radio stations. Community radio has the proven potential to enable marginalized communities to exercise their right to knowledge and information, including them in policy and decision-making processes, and promoting the diversity of their cultural expression. This project will launch a community radio station entitled 'Radio Nari Aawaj' ('Radio Women's Voice'), to target rural women from the Jumla district, who at present suffer from high levels of illiteracy and low representation within the media. Studio and transmitting equipment will be provided, and at least 30 women will be trained on radio operation techniques and programme production. A five-year strategic plan will also be developed to ensure continuity and sustainability. In achieving its goal, this project will result in a community radio station operated by a trained staff of local women, capable of facilitating self-expression and the sharing of information and knowledge. OBJECTIVE To develop a strategic plan, and provide equipment and training support in order to launch a community radio station, operated by, and aimed at, women living in the remote Jumla District of Nepal.