In a significant ceremony, the Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) and the Sultan Muhammad Dipatuan Kudarat Islamic Academy Foundation, Inc. (SKIA) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to launch SPAMAST Radio, 96.7 FM. This non-commercial, non-partisan, and non-religious radio station will serve as a vital educational tool and a platform for community engagement.
The MOA was signed by SKIA President Atty. Michael O. Mastura and SPAMAST President Dr. Lynette A. Bontia. The ceremony began with a welcome message from Dr. Marlyn B. Llameg, SPAMAST Vice-President for Academic Affairs, who highlighted the importance of the partnership for the seamless operation of the radio station. She emphasized its critical role in the Bachelor of Science in Development Communication (BSDC) program, providing a hands-on broadcasting laboratory that ensures graduates are competitive and skilled.
Dr. Llameg also elaborated on the numerous advantages of having a radio station within an academic institution. She pointed out that the radio station will not only enhance the practical skills of students but also provide a unique platform for disseminating educational content, promoting academic programs, and fostering a stronger connection between the institution and the community
Dr. Bontia expressed her appreciation for SKIA’s support, noting that the collaboration has been instrumental in making the radio station operational. She underscored the radio station’s potential to enhance community engagement, address local issues, celebrate culture, and promote positive change.
Atty. Mastura, in his address, expressed his pleasure at being part of the event and witnessing the beginning of SPAMAST FM radio. He shared SKIA’s mission and vision, which align with SPAMAST’s educational and community service goals. He conveyed his confidence in SPAMAST’s ability to establish a successful radio station.
The MOA signing was attended by officials from both SKIA and SPAMAST, program heads, and BSDC students. The event concluded with remarks from the Dean of the Institute of Agricultural Sciences and Development Communication, Dr. Elenito P. Bugawisan, who emphasized the significance of the ceremony. He noted that the radio station will enable the institution to disseminate valuable information, educational content, and updates to the community, fostering a more informed and engaged audience. He expressed that this initiative marks a great start for the institution as it will officially reach a larger audience through SPAMAST FM Radio, which will soon be on air.
This partnership marks a significant step for SPAMAST in expanding its reach and impact through educational broadcasting, fostering a well-informed and engaged community.