Sri Lanka's Kothmale Community Radio Internet Project
Bhatnagar, Subhash; Dewan, Ankita; Torres, | Magui Moreno; Kanungo, Parameeta;
The Kothmale Community Radio Internet Project is an attempt to extend the benefits of information and communication technology (ICT) to some of the remote areas of Sri Lanka through the innovative convergence of two media: the radio, and the internet. Most of the radio broadcasts use information collected by browsing the internet; this information is then discussed with listeners on the air. The internet access points established in the community enable direct computer access and respond to the information needs of various groups in the community (60 villages and 3 rural towns). An online database of information requests is maintained, and a web page in local languages enables active community participation in the operation of the radio. Easy and free access to information has been effectively used by community members for business, educational, recreational, and other purposes. More than 30 web pages have been created by community youths. In addition, an internet club and a listeners' club have been formed. The radio station has become an integral part of the community, with people actively participating in interactive programs, contributing compact disks and songs to the station, and using the information aired on various programs to upgrade their businesses or learn more skills. However, the operational and financial sustainability of the project needs more attention and consideration needs to be given to better utilization of technical capacities for increasing revenue. In addition, the project has reached a point where staff-management coordination requires review and remedial action.
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