Information Minister Fatimatu Abubakar, in collaboration with the Working Committee, has officially launched the third cohort of the Media Capacity Enhancement Programme (MCEP).

The Programme is aimed at strengthening the skills and knowledge of journalists in the country.

The launch, held today at the Ministry of Information’s Press Centre, highlighted the critical role that well-trained journalists play in Ghana's democratic governance.

Ms Abubakar stated that the MCEP aligns with the Ministry's strategic objective to enhance Civil Society's participation in national development.

“By addressing the media's capacity challenges, we are empowering journalists to play their role effectively in our democracy,” she stated.

Reflecting on the success of previous cohorts, the Information Minister noted that 100 media professionals across the country have already benefited from the program.

The inaugural edition in Kumasi, January 2022, trained 58 journalists, while the second cohort in December 2023 at the University of Media, Arts and Communications (UNIMAC) in Accra, engaged 42 participants in essential journalism modules.

Gloria Hiadzi, Chairperson of the Working Committee and Executive Secretary of the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) addressed the audience, highlighting the unique challenges presented by the upcoming elections.

She stressed the need for journalists to be equipped to report accurately, fairly, and responsibly.

“This year’s training will target 100 journalists from TV, radio, print, and online media across the nation, covering critical areas such as fact-checking, ethical considerations in reporting, understanding electoral processes, and navigating the digital landscape,” Madam Hiadzi explained.

Scheduled for September 10 to 13, this year’s edition will adopt a hybrid format, with 40 journalists participating in person at UNIMAC's Dzorwulu campus and 60 joining online.

Ms Abubakar urged media practitioners and media houses to apply for the training, encouraging broader participation.

Stakeholders present at the launch included members of the Working Committee of MCEP, representatives from GIBA, the National Media Commission (NMC), the Ghana Journalists Association, and new partners, such as the New Media Association of Ghana, Women in Broadcasting, Alliance for Women in Media Africa, and the Ministry of Information Press Corps.