Waning funding slows training center

Indonesia (MNN) — When faced with the dilemma of bringing more people into the field of Christian broadcasting in a mostly-Muslim country, Far East Broadcasting Company Indonesia Director Professor Daniel* wrestled with the issue daily (*name changed for security). His goal was to create eight new AM/FM stations by 2013. But first, he needed people who could run a station. His solution? Provide training. 

The name of the training center he established in 2003 is called Heartline Academy of Media, or HADIA for short. Today, the center does more than just train students. It is the base for the local FM station and the center for broadcast training offered through a local
high school.

Students who attend HADIA are introduced to Christian broadcasting and learn a variety of skills including the art of public speaking, biblical counseling, health promotion and script writing. Some of the students go on to broadcast for FEBC Indonesia or with one of the Christian stations within the country. The six staff members working there currently have
trained 700 people from West Java, Borneo, Sumatra, Papua and Bali. 

Some who attend HADIA are also nursing students at local universities.  They have developed
programs that combine their two skills to produce programs that promote health awareness. The connections that people make during their training offer them a better chance of finding a job in the future. 

Funding for training has diminished and therefore has reduced the number of students able to complete the program. To meet Professor Daniel's goal by 2013, funding is needed. All teachers, tools, and motivation are in place, ready to go when the funding is provided. 

Indonesia's Christian population is on the rise, but there are still more than 200 million people who need to hear the Gospel. Professor Daniel has found radio to be an
effective tool for reaching a greater audience in his 40 years in the broadcast business.