Role of Radio Broadcasts in Adult Literacy Education in Bauchi State

This study examined the role of radio broadcast programmes in promoting adult literacy education in Bauchi State, North East Nigeria. In contexts where access to formal education infrastructure is limited, radio remains one of the most widely accessible and cost-effective channels for delivering educational content to adult learners. The study adopted a descriptive survey design targeting 150 adult learners and 20 education extension workers in three local government areas. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, listening diaries, and group discussions. Findings indicated that radio literacy programmes produced modest but meaningful improvements in phonological awareness, reading comprehension, and numeracy among regular listeners. Learners who supplemented radio instruction with print-based follow-up materials demonstrated stronger outcomes than those who relied solely on audio broadcasts. Time scheduling was identified as a critical factor, with early morning and late evening broadcasts attracting the highest listenership among working adults. The study also noted that frequent interruptions due to power supply instability and signal coverage gaps significantly undermined learning continuity, particularly in rural areas. Recommendations include transitioning key literacy broadcasts to solar-powered community radio stations, coordinating broadcast schedules with community learning centre activities, and producing accompanying illustrated print supplements in local languages. Collaboration between Bauchi State Broadcasting Service and the Agency for Mass Education is advocated for programme sustainability. Keywords: radio broadcast, adult literacy, distance education, Bauchi State, non-formal education.