This World Radio Day also marks a historic milestone. MUT Radio is participating in a groundbreaking Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) Distance Learning Trial, the first of its kind in South Africa. This initiative explores how digital radio can deliver educational content directly to students, even in areas with limited internet connectivity. For a station rooted in Umlazi Township, one of Africa’s most vibrant and resilient townships, this is more than innovation. It is purpose. Carl Sheik, MUT Radio Consultant, said, “Digital radio, used wisely, can extend access to quality education, reach underserved communities, reduce reliance on costly data, and strengthen hybrid learning models.”
Sheik further said, “In a continent where connectivity gaps remain real, radio once again demonstrates its quiet power. And this is where AI may reshape production workflows. It may assist with editing, scripting support, or music scheduling. But it cannot replicate lived experience, empathy, community memory, and trust-built overtime.
“At MUT Radio, AI is welcome not as a tool that frees students to focus on storytelling, investigation, and authentic engagement. On this World Radio Day 2026, I salute every student who walks into the MUT Radio studio after a long day of lectures, determined to grow, to serve, and to learn the craft. I salute every broadcaster across South Africa who still believes in the power of the spoken word. And I welcome artificial intelligence, not as a replacement for human connection, but as an ally in strengthening it.”
Sheik said that because at MUT Radio, they understand something essential: “AI may assist the broadcast, but students remain the voice. Happy World Radio Day to all MUT Radio crew and listeners. From MUT Radio — real students, real voices, real radio.”