Professor Eliasu Mumuni, Senior Lecturer at the University for Development Studies (UDS), has called for improved welfare for journalists as a means of enhancing professionalism and raising journalistic standards in the country.

He stressed that proper remuneration and better working conditions were critical for journalists to operate independently, ethically, and without undue influence.

Prof. Mumuni who is also President of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) UDS Chapter, made the appeal at a journalists’ hangout in Tamale, organised by Investigative Journalist Mr Emmanuel Dogbevi for media practitioners in the Northern Region.

The event brought together cross section of journalists to discuss ways of improving professionalism in the media, strengthening fact-checking, and harnessing modern tools, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to raise the standard of journalism.

Participants explored also how to tap into funding opportunities, foster collaboration for impactful stories, and implement strategies to enhance journalists’ welfare and professionalism through capacity building.

Mr Dogbevi who facilitated the discussion, said journalism was not merely about publications but also about the skill, dedication and effort required to uncover the truth, and urged journalists to always doubt information until it could be independently verified, warning against the dangers of becoming conduits for misinformation.

“Always verify your information so that you do not become a mouthpiece for misinformation,” he cautioned.

He noted that journalism was under threat from fake news spread by some social media influencers and bloggers and called for a redefinition of the profession based on accuracy, fact-checking, and integrity.

The session emphasised the importance of ethical standards, responsible use of technology, and advocacy for policies that protect journalists’ welfare and the credibility of the profession.

Participants commended Mr Dogbevi for the initiative, describing it as a valuable platform for career development and mentorship, and urged that the session should be organised regularly.