Depok-The Multimedia Broadcasting study program of the Vocational Education Program, Universitas Indonesia (UI), held a guest lecture entitled “Becoming a Relevant Broadcaster in the Digital Era” on April 7, 2026 at the UI Vocational Auditorium. This activity featured industry practitioner, Muhammad Beryl Rasandavi, announcer for Radio Iswara, and alumni of the Broadcasting study program, who shared his insights and experiences in the radio industry to equip the younger generation with relevant broadcasting skills in the digital era.
In his presentation, Beryl stated that radio still holds a strong position amidst the development of digital media. He stated that radio still has around 22–25 million active listeners in Indonesia, with over 575 operating radio stations. Furthermore, around 48–52% of radio listeners now access broadcasts through digital platforms such as streaming and apps. This demonstrates that radio is not being abandoned, but rather adapting to technological developments.
(Photo: Beryl giving a presentation on the current radio industry)
Beryl further explained that radio’s primary strength lies in its human connection, real-time nature, and ease of access that doesn’t require visual attention. “The level of trust in radio is significantly higher than in social media, making it a relevant medium for reaching audiences,” Beryl said.
In terms of competency, students are introduced to various important skills that a broadcaster must possess, including announcing skills, namely the ability to convey information in an interesting and communicative manner; operating skills, namely the ability to operate broadcast equipment; and musical touch, namely the ability to select and arrange music that suits the audience’s taste.
(Photo: Awarding of certificate of appreciation by the Head of the Multimedia Broadcasting Study Program, Peny Meliaty Hutabarat, M.S.M.)
Beryl added, “We also need to have air personality, which is the character or personality of the broadcaster. In the digital age, audiences connect more with the delivery method than just the content. In fact, content with a strong personality has been shown to have 2–3 times higher engagement rates than regular informative content.”
Furthermore, broadcasters are also required to actively build a presence on social media. Strategies such as creating regular content, engaging with audiences through polls or games, and utilizing platforms like Instagram and TikTok are key to expanding listener reach.
(Photo: Group photo with students after the guest lecture ended)
The Head of the Multimedia Broadcasting Study Program, Peny Meliaty Hutabarat, M.S.M., stated that integrating the guest lecture with the TV and Radio Program Production course is a very strategic step. She believes that students will gain an understanding of the dynamics of the radio industry and its transformation in the digital era. “Through this guest lecture, the younger generation, especially students, will gain a firsthand perspective from practitioners on how to become adaptive, creative, and relevant broadcasters in the digital era,” Peny said.
This activity is expected to broaden students’ horizons and prepare them to become graduates ready to compete in the ever-evolving media industry. The UI Vocational Multimedia Broadcasting study program also continues to strive to provide practice-based learning and collaboration with industry to produce graduates who excel and adapt to changing times.
