DBS at 50: Govt Advises DBS to Cultivate Larger Audience and Loyal Listeners
The Dominica Broadcasting Service (DBS) celebrated its 50 years anniversary on Sunday. The event held at the Kalinago Barana Aute and both the Minister of State for Telecommunications and Broadcasting Oscar George and Parliamentary Representative for Portsmouth Constituency Ian Douglas among other government were in attendance.
Senator George in his address urged the management of DBS to strive for excellence in their broadcasting and journalism practices, saying it is only the hallmark of qualitative excellence that can set the broadcasting insitution apart from others. He urged DBS to implement digital and professional ethics that will generate wider listenership and retain a loyal audience. He said DBS must implement strategies that will make radio a natural part of people’s lives in an increasingly digital enviroment.
George said DBS has come a long way in achieving a 50-year milestone – and despite weathering many storms from various governments, has contributed immensely to the growth and development of Dominica. He urged the five-decades-old broadcasting service to explore alternative media channels to reach people using print resources, Internet, TV, and mobile apps among other avenues.
According to the Minister of State for Telecommunications and Broadcasting, the government will soon facilitate training opportunities for students of communication and journalist at the DBS. He said a select number of outstanding students will grow into upcoming broadcasters by having hands-on practical sessions at the radio station.
“We believe that this is very important to ensure that our young and upcoming broadcasters are equipped with the necessary skill and expertise required to ensure that the sector strives in this information age,” George said. “Take it from me; there is no better institution to assist our young media professionals to apply the trade at DBS Radio.”
Representing PM Roosevelt Skerrit at the event, Ian Douglas lauded DBS for hitting 50 years in servicing the radio broadcasting needs of the nation. He noted that “DBS has always been a faithful companion in the homes of all Dominican families” and could do more to meet the information requirements of every Dominican.
“Any institution that can celebrate 50 years, that says a lot about the institution,” he said. “That says a lot about the resilience of the institution and the fortitude of the institution…because DBS has been there through hard times in Dominica, several natural disasters, through political upheavals, changing of governments…”
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