SOA Community Radio Joins Odisha’s Battle Against Coronavirus

Bhubaneswar: Amidst the barrage of information about COVID-19 pandemic, which often confuses the common man, Community Radio of the SOA Deemed to be University has been attempting to enlighten the public on how to keep away from the deadly coronavirus.

In collaboration with UNICEF, Voice of SOA Community 90.4 has been airing programmes stressing on need to wear mask, wash hands regularly and maintain social distancing.

In the special programme titled ‘Sarve Bhawantu Sukhina’, the community radio invites experts and doctors from Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital to the studio for their valuable tips and advice on coronavirus.

Researchers from SOA enlighten listeners about the virus, psychologists talk about mental health issues while Asha Karmis and ANMs speak about safety precautions, the need for proper exercise and nutrition.

Skits and jingles on home isolation, home care of patients, stigmas, discriminations and taking care of the elderly are aired regularly.

Programmes on information about the Antigen and RT-PCR tests, plasma therapy, need for plasma donation and taking care of patients suffering from cancer, diabetes and hypertension during the pandemic are aired in Odia, Hindi and English.

Student radio jockeys anchor a popular programme titled ‘SOA Youngistan’ twice a week while digital programmes are made through which students connect with each other from their homes.

Ten episodes of ‘Mission Corona’ have been aired in association with UNICEF and Community Radio Association (CRA) since June.

Programmes on agriculture — ‘SOA Agriculture’ and ‘Badi Bagicha’ — are broadcast twice a week and have become very popular.

The radio has also been airing ‘Yoga Lessons’ and hosted a special program on nutritional diet for children and pregnant women as September is observed as ‘Nutritional Month’, said Officer in Charge of the radio station Honey Patnaik.