In its 66th meeting, the Graduate Research Management Council of Federal Urdu University, Karachi, awarded a PhD degree to Saeed Masood Usmani of the Department of Mass Communication. His doctoral work, conducted under the supervision of Professor Dr. Tauseef Ahmed Khan—a respected figure in journalistic, academic, and literary circles—was titled:
“Popularity of FM Radio Broadcasting in Karachi: An Analytical Study of Audience.”
The degree was conferred after favorable evaluations from both national and international examiners, followed by a successful public defense.
Remarkably, Dr. Usmani achieved this academic milestone at the age of 80, despite enduring four heart attacks and a stroke during his PhD. His unwavering dedication to knowledge, fueled by a deep passion for reading—so much so that he’s often referred to as a “walking encyclopedia”—enabled him to persevere through these challenges.
Dr. Usmani’s life has been marked not only by scholarly pursuits but also by a legacy of political activism and participation in protest movements.
His dissertation explores the social and cultural influence of FM radio in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city. The research stands out for its inclusivity, incorporating feedback from over 5,000 respondents across all districts of Karachi: 2,500 men, 2,226 women, and 400 transgender individuals, making it a rare and comprehensive study in media research.
Key findings from the study include:
70% of participants believed FM radio helped raise political awareness.
86% credited FM radio with delivering crucial information on natural disasters, government messages, safety, and public service campaigns.
96% agreed that FM radio had influenced cultural and social attitudes.
90% said they listened to FM radio regularly.
80% felt it played a significant role in language development.
90% stated that FM radio remained independent from the influence of modern media.
Dr. Usmani’s achievement is a testament to lifelong learning, resilience, and the enduring power of passion-driven research.