Paul Richards: Broadcasting standards have fallen

At the launch of two programmes at SITAL College of Tertiary Education Limited in Tacarigua yesterday, Richards said the standard has deteriorated drastically.

He hopes the broadcasting course go a long way in improving the skills of communicators.

Also launched in commemoration of SITAL’S 25th anniversary was a programme in eco tourism.

Richards, an Independent Senator, will be one of the lecturers in the broadcasting programme.

“I have no problem with colloquial language but,” he said.

“I have always said colloquial language and local parlance must be an option, not because you cannot speak standard English, it should be used in addition to your ‘mysterious’ standard English.

Very often we turn on the radio or look at the television we hear the mispronunciation of words. It is confusing to me.” Richards said the course aims to look at youth and also improve communication skills, not only in media but across the board.

He said to be successful in any sector, being an effective communicator is key in service industry.

“In politics, in education, in medicine, in law, you can have all the knowledge you want inside of yourself and if you cannot communicate that knowledge or information effectively, you are not going to be as effective in your field.” Richards said media and communication services for the period 2014 to 2015 accounts for $5.6 billion in business and has increased despite the economic challenge.

“It tells you of the scope of the sector of media and communication services in Trinidad and Tobago, inclusive of radio, television, and that is not counting advertising and other service industries.” SITAL’S executive director Ann Marina White said they are excited to introduce the programmes in keeping with their vision to contribute to national development by offering a curriculum that meets the needs of the industry and is in alignment with the country’s goals.

“We do not only want to respond to market needs, but to look ahead to the creation of new or expanded markets which are suitable for our student base.”