It is truely unfortunate that a pilot project can not stand after the pilot phase with its services as before. The radio is reported to be so dear to many people in the area and then I wonder why it can not sustain the service, that stimulate listeners and users alike. I dont think it good idea to get more funders to support the program (Internet component), now is the time for internal reorganisation with the program and spending styles of the radio to fit into the requirements for remaining on line. I think with regard to ICT related development areas, donor/funders should support social marketing and promotions of services, Kothmale is now over that. We need to examine areas where cut backs can be made in the design, structure and spending patterns of the radio including areas where reallocations internally can be made. For instance, with 64kbps, that is a good fast link to the Internet, the radio should charge for Internet access at Gampola and Nawalapitiya community libraries. It should cut back on the Internet access time in the studio and thus reduce money spent on line. The idea of audio streaming during broadcasts is nice but expensive and I recommend that Kothmale first choose to stay on air and online before getting sophisticated. At least the radio should aim at raising the minimum US $ 100 - 200 per month to cover operation costs for the link or down grade the link to what the radio can afford. I'm not familiar with the telecom situation in Sri Lanka but for radio browsing any thing less than 64kbps would do in the circumstances. The radio does not have an obligation, in my view, to continue with a 64 kbps established under a free service by the telecom if they can not afford it. It may also be useful to negotiate a new arrangement with the ISP to provide Internet access on a special rate for the selected time the radio is online with broadcasts. Besides, is there any collection (funds) made during the period when the telecom co. was providing free access? it could be used to shock absorb the pay-per-use period. The idea of commercialing afternoon broadcasts would be a right suggestion too, at 75% alleged self support, the radio is not bad and can break even quiet easily. In the overall, I recommend that a solution be found within the operational costs and a minimum capacity to remain on line. We may further discuss along this line but the basic fact that the Internet component should stay in the radio. Yes, these are the realities of the developing world. Regards, Meddie Meddie Mayanja Uganda National Commission for UNESCO ------------ ***GKD is an initiative of the Global Knowledge Partnership*** To post a message, send it to: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To subscribe or unsubscribe, send a message to: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>. In the 1st line of the message type: subscribe gkd OR type: unsubscribe gkd Archives of previous GKD messages can be found at: <http://www.globalknowledge.org>
