16-April-2025
80-Year-Old Dr. Saeed Usmani Awarded PhD for Groundbreaking Study on FM Radio in Karachi
In a remarkable achievement that proves age is no barrier to academic success, Dr. Saeed Masood Usmani, at the age of 80, has been awarded a PhD in Mass Communication by the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science & Technology, Karachi.
The decision was made during the university's 66th Graduate Research Management Council (GRMC) meeting. Dr. Usmani’s dissertation, titled:
“Popularity of FM Radio Broadcasting in Karachi: An Analytical Study of Audience”
…was supervised by the renowned Professor Dr. Tauseef Ahmed Khan, a distinguished academic, journalist, and literary figure.
A Life of Dedication and Resilience
Despite suffering four heart attacks and a stroke during the course of his research, Dr. Usmani remained unwavering in his commitment to completing his PhD. Often referred to as a "walking encyclopedia" due to his extensive knowledge and deep love for reading, he defied all odds to reach this prestigious milestone.
Dr. Usmani’s journey isn’t confined to academia. His life has also been one of political activism, with active participation in protest movements throughout his years, reflecting a deep commitment to public causes and intellectual freedom.
The Research: A Deep Dive into Karachi's FM Radio Culture
Dr. Usmani’s research focused on the social and cultural impact of FM radio in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest metropolis. His dissertation stands out for its inclusive methodology and large sample size, incorporating feedback from over 5,000 respondents across all Karachi districts.
Demographic Breakdown of Respondents
| Gender | Number of Participants |
|---|---|
| Men | 2,500 |
| Women | 2,226 |
| Transgender | 400 |
| Total | 5,126 |
This demographic inclusivity makes the study one of the most comprehensive audience analyses in Pakistani media research.
Key Findings from the Study
Dr. Usmani’s findings shed light on the enduring relevance and impact of FM radio broadcasting, especially in an age dominated by digital media.
Highlights from the Research
- 90% of participants reported regularly listening to FM radio.
- 96% agreed that FM radio had a positive influence on social and cultural attitudes.
- 80% believed FM radio played a significant role in language development.
- 70% said it helped raise political awareness.
- 86% credited it with disseminating critical information during natural disasters, public safety issues, and government campaigns.
- 90% affirmed that FM radio remained independent from modern media influence.
Audience Feedback Summary Table
| Question Asked | Percentage of Positive Responses |
|---|---|
| Do you listen to FM radio regularly? | 90% |
| Has FM radio influenced your cultural and social attitudes? | 96% |
| Has FM radio helped improve your language skills? | 80% |
| Has FM radio contributed to political awareness? | 70% |
| Does FM radio deliver important public service messages and alerts? | 86% |
| Is FM radio still independent from modern media influence? | 90% |
Why This Research Matters
Dr. Usmani’s dissertation holds special relevance in today’s rapidly changing media environment. While streaming services, podcasts, and social media dominate much of the attention, FM radio in Karachi remains a resilient and community-oriented medium.
This research:
- Adds credible academic value to media studies in Pakistan.
- Highlights the role of FM radio as an accessible and influential tool for public awareness.
- Demonstrates media inclusivity by accounting for gender diversity in data collection.
- Provides a template for future researchers interested in the sociopolitical role of traditional media.
A Role Model for Lifelong Learning
Dr. Saeed Usmani’s story is an inspiration for learners of all ages. His persistence, scholarly rigor, and unwavering passion for knowledge illustrate that learning truly has no age limit. His life reflects the perfect intersection of intellect, resilience, and social activism.
Dr. Usmani’s contribution to media research and his personal journey are both monumental. As Karachi continues to evolve as a cultural hub, his findings on FM radio’s enduring impact serve as a crucial resource for policymakers, researchers, and media professionals alike.