The Institute of Public Relations (IPR), Ghana, has launched the Annual Edzikanfo Lecture, an initiative to honour pioneers of the Public Relations profession and draw lessons from their lives and contributions to professional practice and society.

The maiden edition, held on August 7 at the British Council Auditorium in Accra, celebrated Joseph Emmanuel Allotey-Pappoe (JEAP), former President of IPR Ghana and the African Public Relations Association (APRA), for his contribution to the development of Public Relations in Ghana and across Africa.

In her welcome remarks, Esther A. N. Cobbah, FIPR, President of IPR Ghana, explained that Edzikanfo means “those who took the lead; those who went ahead of us; those who paved the way for us.”

She said the Annual Edzikanfo Lecture would celebrate both living and departed professionals whose experiences offer valuable lessons for the profession's growth.

“If we have an Institute of Public Relations Ghana today, it is because of those who paved the way for us,” she said.

Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, Immediate Past President of APRA and Keynote Speaker for the Lecture, reflected on JEAP’s role in reviving the then-Federation of African Public Relations Associations (FAPRA) and strengthening collaboration among PR professionals across Africa.

Describing him as an institution builder, he said, “JEAP understood that leadership was leaving an institution stronger than you found it. He restored belief, united professionals and left a legacy we can build on.”

Reflecting on JEAP’s approach to mentorship, Dr Paulina Kuranchie, APR, Lecturer at Newcastle University and one of his mentees, said he went beyond offering advice to creating opportunities for young professionals to gain practical experience, build confidence and grow in the profession.

She highlighted JEAP’s belief in mentorship through apprenticeship and ethical practice, urging practitioners to invest in and guide the next generation.

Rev. Kwaku Osei Bimpong, FIPR, former General Manager of SSNIT and a professional colleague of JEAP, highlighted JEAP’s contribution to the early development of IPR Ghana and the establishment of structures including its constitution, accreditation system, code of ethics and professional training programmes.

He said JEAP was uncompromising in his commitment to standards, accountability and excellence.

From SSNIT, where JEAP served for 37 years, Director-General Kwesi Afreh Biney described him as a consummate professional and astute administrator whose impact is still felt.

He also pledged SSNIT’s continued support for the Annual Edzikanfo Lecture, saying, “We will always be part of this conversation.”

As Guest of Honour, Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications, officially launched the Annual Edzikanfo Lecture and emphasised the continued importance of ethics, professionalism and public trust in communication practice.

“Integrity will never become outdated. Truth will never become obsolete. Professional standards will never lose their value,” he said.

The Minister also announced that his office would partner with IPR Ghana on initiatives to promote government communications practice and strengthen the capacity of young communication professionals and students.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of the African Public Relations Association (APRA) Visionary Leader Award plaque to the Allotey-Pappoe family.

JEAP was posthumously honoured at APRA’s 50th Anniversary Conference in Mombasa, Kenya, in June 2025 for his contribution to the revival and development of the Association.

The Allotey-Pappoe family expressed appreciation to IPR Ghana and APRA for honouring JEAP and keeping his legacy alive.

The Annual Edzikanfo Lecture will honour a different pacesetter each year, creating a platform for reflection, learning and drawing lessons for the future.

SSNIT was the Headline Sponsor of the maiden Annual Edzikanfo Lecture, with GRIDCo, Stratcomm Africa and ECG as partners.