In mid-1997, Nadi was on the brink of launching its first community television station. An article in The Fiji Times from May 3, 1997, highlighted an announcement made by John Yates of Community Television, who received a three-year broadcast license from the then Minister of Information, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola.
The journey began when Mr. Yates and his wife, Regina, submitted their proposal to the government in 1995, with the intention of broadcasting two-hour programs each evening. Regina expressed their readiness to seek financial support, noting the strong local interest: “In the first day of asking around, we’ve had aid organizations and 700 people volunteer their services.”
The station aimed to produce a variety of educational content for all ages, focusing on improving literacy, music, cultural, and religious programming, ultimately striving to enhance the community’s quality of life. Regina mentioned that their top priority was obtaining the necessary permissions from landowners for setting up an aerial, estimating that they could be on air within three to six months. “We are excited that it has finally come around,” she stated, reflecting the enthusiasm surrounding this new venture.
This development marks a significant milestone in enhancing community engagement and access to educational resources, showcasing the power of communal effort and dedication to improving lives through media.
In summary, the introduction of community television in Nadi reflects a promising step toward cultural enrichment and social development, demonstrating how local initiatives can thrive when supported by both individual efforts and community involvement.
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