One of the leading international gatherings of scholars, media professionals, communication experts and policymakers is set to take place at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) in Accra.

The State of Journalism, Media and Communication Conference, slated for July 15 and 16, 2026, will bring together participants from around the world to examine the evolving state of journalism, media and communication in an era of rapid technological, social and political change.

The conference aims to foster critical dialogue on contemporary journalism practice and the changing nature of the communication landscape in Ghana, across Africa and globally.

It has attracted participants from diverse interdisciplinary fields and institutions spanning multiple continents, reflecting the increasingly global character of media and communication scholarship and practice.

Held under the theme "Navigating the Future: Journalism, Media and Communication in a Dynamic World", the conference will provide a platform for the exchange of ideas, research findings and professional experiences on some of the most pressing issues confronting the media and communication sectors today.

Topics for deliberation include Artificial Intelligence and Media, Factchecking, Misinformation and Disinformation, Media Ownership, Science and Environmental Journalism, Investigative Journalism, among other emerging issues shaping the future of journalism and communication worldwide.

The keynote address will be delivered by Professor Christopher Rhodes, who will speak on "Beyond ‘Enemy of the People’: Journalism, Civic Culture, Media Partisanship and Democratic Renewal in an Age of Democratic Backsliding”.

A major highlight of the conference will be the opening plenary session, which will bring together distinguished academics, media practitioners and industry leaders to discuss the current state and future trajectory of journalism and communication in an increasingly interconnected world.

Additional panel discussions will explore emerging trends, innovations, challenges and opportunities within the media and communication ecosystem.

The conference is chaired by Professor Eric Opoku Mensah and is being organised under the auspices of the School of Journalism and Media Studies at UniMAC.

Speaking ahead of the conference, the Dean of the School of Journalism and Media Studies, Etse Sikanku, underscored the significance of the gathering.

"Media and communication remain at the core of society, democracy and national development.

At a time of profound transformation in the global information environment, it is essential that scholars and practitioners come together to critically examine media practice, reflect on emerging challenges and identify pathways for strengthening journalism and communication for the public good," he said.

The conference is expected to attract academics, journalists, communication professionals, students, policymakers and industry stakeholders from around the world, further cementing UniMAC's growing reputation as a centre of excellence for media and communication education, research and professional engagement.