ICTA empowers radio browsing concept at Kothmale station

THE Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) has given a new face to the Kothmale Community radio by establishing a Nanasala: Rural Tele Center.

With new computers and facilities along with a VSAT earth station to provide high speed Internet, the Kothmale community can benefit from these ICT services.

The Kothmale community radio station is also based in the same locality and dedicated to broadcasting programmes with a local community focus.

Kothmale FM plays an important role in relaying information regarding health, agriculture and local news.

It works with local schools and broadcasts cultural, sporting and social events. Given the lack of access to telephones in the area, the station also plays a vital role in keeping the community informed in emergency situations.

"We have learned about how ICTs can be creatively used and how they are a common link between media and learning centers. Capacity building and closer integration with the community are critical issues for the future of these programmes.