In an era when STEM fields dominate daily discourse, a unique radio show comprising history vignettes has ignited public passion for stories from the past.
The novel programme which blends enthralling story telling with historical insight has captivated audiences and demonstrated the enduring relevance of history and literature in daily life. It has shown that history, when told with purpose and passion, becomes more than a record of the past — but a guiding force in understanding the present and future.
The Department of History and Philosophy’s Today in Bajan History radio series, which embraces an affectionate name given to natives and indigenous characteristics of the island of Barbados, has brought to life historical events through compelling narratives that help to deepen social consciousness and cultural awareness.
Through meticulous research, the series, which is broadcast daily as a collaboration between the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill campus and Starcom Network Inc., ensures that listeners gain insight into interesting people and defining moments in Barbados’ history. Stories range from the fight for Emancipation to the evolution of the island’s political and social fabric.
Beyond its role in education, since it first aired in November 2020, Today in Bajan History has catalysed the fostering of a deeper sense of national pride and serves as a living, breathing force that informs the present and undoubtedly helps to shape the future.
The success and impact of Today in Bajan History has been profound. By making history accessible and engaging, it has resonated with audiences far beyond Barbados’ shores thanks to an increasingly fast-paced, technology-aided global listenership.
This popularity has led to the publication of the first volume of Today in Bajan History: The Almanac, which has become a must-have possession for readers at home and abroad. The radio show has also given rise to the spin-off Today in West Indies Cricket History, dedicated to chronicling the triumphs, struggles and unforgettable feats of Caribbean cricket.
Spanning the Golden Age of West Indies dominance to the legends who left an indelible mark on the game, this new series that began in 2024, reflects the same commitment to preserving and honouring the past. Together, these series weave an unbroken thread between history and identity to ensure that the stories of Barbados and the West Indies continue to resonate for generations to come.
As liberal arts programmes struggle with declining enrolment, the radio shows demonstrate the enduring relevance of the humanities; reminding listeners that history, literature and philosophy are not just academic subjects but essential tools for critical thinking, empathy, and decision-making in modern life.
By rekindling interest in the past and proffering a roadmap to the future, the programmes suggest that far from being obsolete, the humanities are crucial for understanding societal challenges, fostering creativity, and shaping a more informed, reflective world.
