Fanshawe College and WeRise, a London-based non-profit community initiative, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore the future of the college’s campus radio station 106.9 The X (CIXX-FM).

The station’s feasibility has been in question since last year when the college announced it was suspending numerous programs amid a sharp decline in enrolment, including Broadcasting – Radio & Media Production, Journalism – Television and Digital News, and Advanced Live Digital Media Production.

Launched in 1978 as the first licensed, instructional campus radio station, its current licence term doesn’t expire until 2030.

In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, Fanshawe and WeRise indicated they have committed to “a collaborative process to assess feasibility, guided by shared commitments to community service, public-interest broadcasting, cultural safety, equity and inclusion, and continued student learning opportunities.”

“As the city of London continues to grow, this work reflects a shared interest in strengthening local media through hyperlocal journalism, multilingual storytelling, and community-based programming,” the statement continued. “WeRise will seek funding to lead a comprehensive feasibility study, with findings informing any future governance or operational decisions.”

Fanshawe said it will make “every effort” to keep 106.9 the X on-air during the study period.