SRINAGAR: The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) has received a licence from the Ministry of Communication, Government of India, to establish a community radio station, FM 91.2 MHz, on its campus. The station is poised to strengthen the university’s community engagement and outreach efforts by broadcasting diverse content, including campus updates, student-centric programming, and discussions on socio-economic and environmental issues.
Prof Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of IUST, congratulated the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication for this achievement and commended Dr Ruheela Hasan, Dean Outreach, for leading the initiative. “This community radio station represents our commitment to fostering societal engagement and promoting social responsibility,” he said.
The radio station will serve as a practical learning platform for Mass Media students, offering hands-on experience in broadcasting. It will also provide a space for local artists, writers, and musicians to showcase their talents, further fostering cultural diversity and community empowerment.
Dr Ruheela Hassan said, “IUST is the first state university in Kashmir to acquire this license, and we have been producing community based radio programmes since 2009.” There are three to four community radio stations operated by Army Goodwill Schools in Kashmir. She also added “Securing the license was not an easy task, and we had to apply for multiple times.”
Prof Romshoo emphasised the significance of the station in promoting disaster awareness, environmental conservation, and social cohesion. He assured collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure that the station becomes a robust platform for community dialogue and development.
