The Information Minister, Fatimatu Abubakar, has expressed concern over the growing trend of media personnel using inappropriate and inflammatory language on various media platforms.
Speaking at the launch of 3rd Cohort of Media Capacity Enhancement Program (MCEP) in Accra on Thursday, she emphasized the critical role that media professionals play in shaping public discourse and urged them to exercise caution and responsibility in their communication.
Madam Fatimatu Abubakar acknowledged the extensive formal training that many journalists undergo, which equips them with the necessary skills to deliver credible and ethical content.
However, she pointed out that despite these efforts, some media personnel still engage in the use of malicious and harmful language that can pollute the public discourse and mislead the audience.
"The Media Capacity Enhancement Program, which is designed to elevate journalistic standards, cannot fully address the issue of deliberate misinformation and the use of inappropriate language. This is why the law, including the NFC and relevant statutes, exists to curb such behavior," Madam Abubakar stated.
She emphasized the importance of protecting and educating media professionals who strive to maintain high standards in their work, while also ensuring that those who misuse their platforms are held accountable.
The Minister highlighted the need for ongoing training, particularly for those in leadership roles within media organizations, as they have the potential to influence the practices of their colleagues.
"Most of the real learning happens on the job—in the studios, print houses, and newsrooms—where junior staff observe and emulate the actions of their seniors. This is why it's crucial that those in leadership positions receive proper training, as they are the ones who will pass on their knowledge to others in their working environment," Madam Abubakar added.
She also mentioned that there have been numerous training initiatives from organizations such as the UNDP, the British High Commission, UNESCO, and the American Embassy, aimed at improving the quality of journalism in Ghana. However, she stressed the need for continuous efforts to ensure that every journalist in the country has access to these opportunities.
"As media professionals, we have a responsibility to provide the public with credible and trustworthy information. When we fail to do so and instead use our platforms to spread harmful language, we risk undermining the very trust that the public places in us," the Information Minister concluded.
Madam Fatimatu Abubakar's remarks serve as a reminder to all media personnel of the importance of upholding ethical standards and contributing positively to the national discourse, particularly in an election year when tensions can run high.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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