Minister for Information Fatimatu Abubakar has underscored the importance of the media in nation-building, stressing that a well-informed and capable media is integral to Ghana’s democratic process.
She urged media practitioners to be professional in the dissemination of information in order to preserve the peace and unity the country currently enjoys.
The Minister stated these when she officially inaugurated the third cohort of the Media Capacity Enhancement Programme (MCEP) at the University of Media Arts and Communication (UNIMAC) in North Dzorwulu yesterday.
“I am excited to see the commitment and enthusiasm of all the participants gathered here and online. This programme is not just a scheduled event; it is an essential step in enhancing our democracy and media environment,” Ms Abubakar added.
The programme, aimed at equipping media professionals with advanced skills, is a critical step in bolstering the role of the media as the fourth estate in Ghana’s democracy.
Ms Fatimatu Abubakar lauded her predecessor Mr. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah for laying the foundation for the programme, which has become a cornerstone of media training in Ghana.
The MCEP, first launched in January 2022, aims to equip media professionals with the skills necessary to advance the nation’s development.
The participants, including reporters, producers, social media executives, and media critics, were selected by an independent working committee. Over 100 journalists have benefitted from the training in previous cohorts.
Reflecting on the impact of the programme, the Information Minister noted that the MCEP brand has gained recognition as a formidable tool to enhance the work of our practicing journalists and has inspired similar training initiatives by the UNDP and the British High Commission.
Participants are expected to engage in interactive discussions and learn from experienced facilitators. Ms Fatimatu Abubakar encouraged them to seize the opportunity to broaden their skills, stressing the importance of maintaining professionalism and integrity in their work.
“The media is a very strong instrument that carries a lot of responsibility. You have a vital responsibility to enlighten and educate the public, and you must do so with honesty and a dedication to the truth,” she urged.
The opening ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including the Vice-Chancellor of UniMAC, the Chairperson of the National Media Commission, representatives from media associations, and various partners.
The four-day programme is supported by the Volta River Authority and MTN.
As the third cohort kicks off, participants are expected to take full advantage of the training, which would contribute significantly to their career development and the media landscape in Ghana.
The MCEP is set to end on Friday, September 13, 2024.
