The Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, yesterday inaugurated the third cohort of the Media Capacity Enhancement Programme (MCEP) at the University of Media Arts and Communication (UNIMAC) in North Dzorwulu.
The programme, aimed at equipping media professionals with advanced skills, is a seen as a critical step in bolstering the role of the media as the fourth estate in Ghana’s democracy.
In her opening remarks, the Minister emphasised the importance of the media in nation building. She told the media personnel that a well-informed and capable media is integral to Ghana’s democratic process.
“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,” the Minister said.
Praise
She lauded her predecessor, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, for laying the foundation for the programme, which had become a cornerstone of media training in Ghana.
Reflecting on the impact of the programme, the Minister noted that the MCEP brand had 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.
Madam Abubakar encouraged the participants to seize the opportunity to enhance 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 MCEP
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.
The opening ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including the Vice-Chancellor of UniMAC, Professor Eric Opoku, 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.
A group photograph of the MCEP third cohort with key stakeholders
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