Medan, June 4, 2026, The English Education Study Program, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU), officially launched its new educational radio program, English On Air, through a strategic collaboration with 91.6 UMSU FM Radio Medan on Thursday (June 4, 2026).
Broadcast live from the UMSU FM Radio studio from 10.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. WIB, the inaugural episode carried the theme “Introduction to English On Air: Introducing the Program and the Importance of English Communication.” The program featured Dr. Pirman Ginting, S.Pd., M.Hum., Head of the English Education Study Program, and Selamat Husni Hasibuan, S.Pd., M.Hum., Ph.D., Secretary of the English Education Study Program, as guest speakers. The discussion was moderated by two students of the English Education Study Program, M. Sunrise Nahtiti Albrandany and Natasya Irwanda Nasution.
The launch of English On Air marks a new milestone in the study program’s efforts to create meaningful learning experiences beyond the classroom while strengthening the English-speaking academic culture within the university. The program is designed as a platform where students, lecturers, alumni, and invited experts can discuss educational issues, English language learning, career development, youth empowerment, and current topics relevant to society.
During the discussion, the speakers emphasized the growing importance of English communication in the era of globalization. English is no longer merely a subject taught in schools; it has become an essential tool for accessing knowledge, technology, international collaboration, and global career opportunities. Therefore, students are encouraged not only to master English academically but also to develop the confidence and communication skills needed to use the language effectively in real-life situations.
The audience was also introduced to the English Education Study Program at UMSU, which has been serving the community since 1984 and is currently accredited UNGGUL. The program continues to develop graduates who are academically competent, professionally prepared, globally minded, and guided by the values of Al-Islam and Kemuhammadiyahan. Students are provided with various opportunities to enhance their competencies through teaching practice programs, international collaborations, guest lectures, academic conferences, English proficiency preparation programs, community engagement activities, and student development initiatives.
Speaking during the program, Dr. Pirman Ginting, S.Pd., M.Hum., Head of the English Education Study Program, highlighted the educational value of the initiative.
“English On Air is more than just a radio program. It is an innovative learning platform that provides our students with authentic opportunities to practice English communication, public speaking, critical thinking, and leadership skills in a real-world setting. Through this program, we hope to strengthen the English-speaking academic culture within our study program while also bringing educational and inspiring discussions to the wider community. We want our students to be confident, competent, and globally competitive graduates.”
Meanwhile, Selamat Husni Hasibuan, S.Pd., M.Hum., Ph.D., Secretary of the English Education Study Program, explained the motivation behind the creation of the program.
“The idea behind English On Air emerged from our commitment to bridging classroom learning with real-life communication experiences. Language is best learned when it is used meaningfully, and this program creates a space where students can actively engage with authentic audiences. We also see this initiative as part of our effort to showcase the strengths of the English Education Study Program at UMSU and to inspire prospective students to pursue higher education and develop the skills needed for the future.”
The program also reflects the strong collaboration between academic and media institutions within UMSU. Through this partnership, students gain valuable exposure to broadcasting practices while listeners benefit from informative and engaging educational content.
Dedi Suhendi, Head of 91.6 UMSU FM Radio Medan, expressed his appreciation for the collaboration.
“We are pleased to collaborate with the English Education Study Program in launching English On Air. This program demonstrates how radio can continue to serve as a relevant platform for education, creativity, and community engagement. We believe this collaboration will not only provide valuable broadcasting experience for students but also enrich our listeners with informative and inspiring content. We look forward to seeing this program grow and become one of the flagship educational broadcasts on UMSU FM Radio.”
In addition to educational discussions, future episodes of English On Air will feature interactive question-and-answer sessions, live audience engagement, student performances, and conversations with lecturers, students, alumni, and invited guests from various professional backgrounds.
The program is scheduled to air every Thursday at 10.00 a.m. WIB on 91.6 UMSU FM Radio Medan. Through this initiative, the English Education Study Program FKIP UMSU hopes to contribute to the development of communication skills, lifelong learning, and public engagement while promoting the importance of English in education, careers, and everyday life.
With the spirit of “Speak English. Share Ideas. Inspire People,” English On Air is expected to become a sustainable platform for learning, communication, and inspiration for students, prospective students, and the wider community.
Lihat: https://www.youtube.com/live/tN87bDWF1a0?si=UiWNhZ0AVWKHN8ci
