EFFECT OF COMMUNITY RADIO ON CULTURAL PRESERVATION: A STUDY OF AUCHI POLY RADIO

This research looked at how Auchi Poly Radio (Hillside 94.1FM) helps to keep the culture of the Auchi people alive. Culture is slowly fading in many places, especially among young people, because of foreign media and modern lifestyles. Some people believe that community radio can help bring back what is being lost. The study focused on the programmes aired by the station, how often people listen to them, and whether those programmes truly remind people of their cultural roots. The method used was a simple survey, where 400 people answered questions about what they hear and how they feel about it. Most of the people who took part were young, and many of them had gone far in school. Many said the radio helps them learn about local songs, stories, and language. But others pointed out that not all ethnic groups are fairly represented, and some listeners still find the programmes boring or too limited. Many also said the station does not have enough money, good equipment, or strong presenters. These issues make the good programmes hard to enjoy or even notice. Still, most listeners believe the station is trying, and that it has the power to do more. The findings suggest that Auchi Poly Radio is already doing something important, but it needs to do it better. If the station uses more native languages, includes more groups, and gets better support, it could become a strong force for saving culture. Culture is not something that stands on its own. It needs to be spoken, shared, and passed down. A radio station that listens to the people and speaks their truth might slowly help a community remember who they are.