Third Cohort of Media Capacity Enhancement Program Launched

The third cohort of the Media Capacity Enhancement Program (MCEP) has officially been launched. The program, which is supported by the Ministry of Information, aims to elevate the standards of journalism in Ghana by providing specialised training to media practitioners.

Speaking at the press launch in Accra on Wednesday, August 22, 2024 the Minister for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, emphasised the significance of the program, which was first introduced in November 2021.

The minister also highlighted the government’s commitment to promoting qualitative and effective journalism in the country.

“The Media Capacity Enhancement Program is crucial for positioning Ghana’s media to effectively play its role in our governance system,” Madam Abubakar stated.

The Minister acknowledged the support of various partners and stakeholders who have contributed to the success of the program.

These include the National Media Commission (NMC), the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), the Private Newspaper and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAC), the Institute of Public Relations (IPR), and the University of Media, Arts, and Communication (UNIMAC).

“We are immensely grateful to our partners for their unwavering support,” the minister noted.

She added that “their collaboration has been instrumental in ensuring the success of this program, which has already benefitted over 100 media personnel across the nation.”

The minister also highlighted the financial support provided by institutions such as the Ghana Commission for UNESCO, the Chinese Embassy, Volta River Authority (VRA) and MTN Ghana Limited, which have been pivotal in the successful implementation of the program.

“This year, VRA has once again graciously agreed to provide financial assistance and MTN Ghana, our data partner, continues to support us by ensuring that our participants have the necessary data to engage fully in the training,” she announced.

The third cohort of the MCEP will be conducted in a hybrid format, with 40 participants attending in person and 60 joining virtually.

The training, scheduled to take place from September 10 to 13, 2024 at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), Dzorwulu North Campus, will cover 10 specialised journalism modules.

“We encourage media practitioners and media houses from across the country to take advantage of this opportunity,” the minister urged.

She also said that “our goal is to ensure that media professionals from all regions have access to this training, thereby enhancing the overall quality of journalism in Ghana.”

Applications for the program will be opened from August 23 to 29, 2024 with participants expected to be selected based on a set of criteria developed by the Independent Working Committee.

The Chairperson of the MCEP Working Committee, Madam Gloria Hiadzi, emphasised the critical role that journalists play in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

“In an era where information flows freely and rapidly, the role of journalists has never been more crucial,” Madam Hiadzi stated.

According to her, the program is not just a training initiative but a “vital investment in our country’s future,” offering journalists who might not otherwise have access to such opportunities the chance to enhance their skills.

Reflecting on the success of the previous cohort held in December 2023 at the University of Media, Arts, and Communications, Madam Hiadzi commended the 42 journalists who participated.

As part of the program’s expansion, the upcoming third edition, set to commence on September 10, 2024 will see participation from 100 journalists across various media platforms, including TV, radio, print and online media.

The training will offer 10 specialised journalism modules over a four-day period, with a particular focus on election reporting.

“We recognise that the upcoming elections present unique challenges and opportunities for journalists. It is imperative that they are equipped with the tools to report accurately, fairly and responsibly,” Madam Hiadzi said.

The modules will cover critical areas such as fact-checking, ethical reporting, understanding electoral processes and navigating the digital landscape.

The Chairperson extended her gratitude to the program’s partners, including the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association, the National Media Commission, the Ghana Journalists Association and others, for their support in bringing the program to fruition.

“As we embark on this new chapter of the Media Capacity Enhancement Program, I encourage all participants to embrace this opportunity with open minds and hearts,” she concluded.

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