NWU FM, the campus radio station on the Mahikeng Campus of the North-West University (NWU), joined forces with SAfm on 16 June 2026 for a special Youth Month simulcast.

This event brought together voices from different generations to reflect on the democratic journey of South Africa and the role of active citizenship in shaping the country's future.

The broadcast formed part of a national collaboration between SAfm and selected campus radio stations across South Africa under the theme, “50 Years Later: The Conversation Continues”. The initiative commemorated the legacy of the 1976 youth uprising while creating meaningful dialogue around the challenges and opportunities facing young South Africans today.

NWU FM participated in the 11:00 - 12:00 simulcast segment, themed “Democracy, Leadership and Active Citizenship”. The programme was co-hosted by SAfm and NWU FM presenters, creating a platform where the voices of young people and experienced leaders engaged in constructive, solution-oriented discussions.

The conversation featured a diverse panel of guests, including young leaders and changemakers who shared their lived experiences and perspectives on democratic participation, leadership, accountability and civic responsibility. They were joined by senior contributors who provided historical context, reflected on the democratic progress in South Africa and explored how different generations can work together to strengthen the institutions and communities of the country.

In line with the objectives of the project, the discussion moved beyond commemoration to examine practical solutions for increasing the participation of young people in democratic processes, fostering ethical leadership and encouraging active citizenship at all levels of society.

Audience engagement formed a key part of the broadcast, with listeners contributing through calls, voice notes, WhatsApp messages and social media interactions. These contributions enriched the conversation by bringing real-life experiences and concerns into the discussion, ensuring that the programme remained relevant and responsive to the issues affecting young South Africans.

The partnership reflects the commitment of NWU FM to creating platforms that amplify the voices of students and young people while contributing to important national conversations. Through collaborations such as this, the station continues to bridge the gap between the university community and broader society, encouraging dialogue that is inclusive, respectful and forward-looking.

For NWU FM presenter Batsiba Rasekanye, the simulcast was both a professional milestone and a powerful reminder of the role of radio in shaping meaningful public discourse.

“Participating in the simulcast with SAfm was a powerful and memorable experience for me. Although I have worked in radio for some time, this was my first time doing talk radio, and it challenged me to engage in deeper, more reflective conversations,” said Batsiba.

“Discussing leadership and citizenship with a national audience reminded me of the deeper power of radio. It is more than just sound waves; it is a space where voices meet to challenge ideas. In that moment, radio became a platform for dialogue that sparked learning and inspired civic engagement in young people like me.”

She added that the experience contributed significantly to her growth as a broadcaster.

“The experience expanded my skills, boosted my confidence and showed me the impact of using my voice to spark meaningful conversations.”

Reflecting on the significance of the collaboration, NWU FM station manager Kamo Ledwaba-Maodi described the simulcast as an important milestone in the continued growth and national recognition of the station.

“These collaborations are a testament to the growth and positioning of NWU FM in the national broadcasting landscape. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to partner with a national powerhouse like SAfm,” said Kamo.

“This simulcast provided a massive platform on which our presenters and the broader NWU student body were heard across the country by their families, friends and communities back home.”

He added that the partnership creates new opportunities for student broadcasters to gain valuable exposure and experience in the industry.

“We look forward to sustaining this momentum. NWU FM is growing rapidly, and our team is now in a unique position to be heard, mentored and exposed to mainstream radio platforms. As station manager, I could not be prouder of this milestone.”

Beyond the live broadcast, the collaboration generated digital content, including photographs, video clips and highlights that will continue to extend the reach and impact of the conversation. The simulcast also reinforced the role of campus radio as a catalyst for civic engagement and meaningful public discourse.

As South Africa marks 50 years since the events of 16 June 1976, initiatives such as this remind us that the pursuit of a more equitable, democratic and prosperous society remains a shared responsibility.

By bringing together the voices of yesterday and today, NWU FM and SAfm helped create a conversation that not only honoured the past but also inspired action for the future.

NWU FM station manager Kamo Ledwaba-Maodi and presenter Batsiba “Ghostii” Rasekanye and students.