Training on Census Content Development for Radio Producers

In preparation for the release of the main census results in May 2015, UNFPA conducted two training workshops from 18^th to 20^th February and 23^rd to 25^thFebruary for twenty six radio producers from City FM, Mandalay FM, Hello Madam Media Group, Myanmar Radio AM (MRTV), Padamyar FM and Radio Free Asia to build their capacity to develop content about the census in radio programmes. U Thein Htike Oo, Lead International Broadcaster of the Burmese Service from Voice of America (VOA), led the three-day training, which was attended by radio producers from Yangon and importantly radio producers who broadcast in various ethnic languages including Chin, Kachin, Kayah, Poe Kayin, Gaybar, Mon, Rakhine, Shan and Da Nu.

Given the popularity of radio in Myanmar and its ability to reach communities from the regional and township levels to the grass root level, it is an important medium to provide information and stimulate public dialogue around the census results, including their implications for development, in the lead up to the release of the main census results. The objectives of the training were to work with local radio producers to generate ideas for future radio content on the Myanmar National Census, and to increase knowledge on public radio concepts, production and presentation techniques. The programme ideas discussed during the training were based around the themes of social engagement, public dialogue, informed discussions and sharing of opinions.

Dr Nyi Nyi, Director, Department of Population, gave participants a through overview of the census, including how the census data was collected and processed, and what information will be available in the main results. He said: “I believe that they now have more comprehensive knowledge about the census and can use this information to develop accurate radio content about the census main results.” He facilitated a question and answer session which provided a platform to address the concerns that exist in the country, particularly distrust around the collection of data and how it will be used. He stressed that a census is an international practice and is important for national development and planning. 

On the third day producers explored and developed programmes using various radio formats including public announcements (PAs), news reports, features, radio drama, celebrity talk shows, and interviews suitable for their target audience. Producers are committed to begin broadcasting programmes that will stimulate discussion and debate on issues of social relevance around the census main results. 

Ms Kyu Kyu Khaing, a producer from MRTV, said she had learned a great deal about the census that she was not aware of before and as a result she would be able to produce more informative programmes. Aye Chan Mon from City FM said not only did she understand more about the census but the training had allowed the producers to brainstorm ideas which would enable them to produce innovative radio programmes in the run up to the release of the main census results. She said: “As a result of the training the radio programmes will be more informative, and provide broader information to the public about the census.