The conference, which would be held at the Accra International Conference Centre, is on the theme: “Media, Democracy and Security,” would be addressed by President John Dramani Mahama.
It said the conference would also have a major training workshop for journalists and media practitioners on: “Reporting Terrorism and Media Crisis Management.”
The statement said the media training workshop is a joint initiative by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and the Africa Media and Democracy Institute.
It said the two organizations signed a memorandum of Understanding to further strengthen their relationship with the objective of enhancing quality and professionalism in journalism and media practices in the country.
It said the certified training programme aims to equip participants with the skills and know-how in responding to terrorist attacks and threats and provides a forum for stakeholder to interact and recognise the respective context from, which they are likely to operate when there is an occurrence.
It said participants would share, critique and appraise techniques and critical challenges that faces journalists, PR and corporate executives in either reporting or responding to the media on terrorism.
It would also provide perspective that places professional and ethical issues vis-à-vis the larger society at the fore front of reportage.
Dr Affail Monney, the President of GJA highlighting on the significance of the training said: “I think we live in an era where terrorism and the threat of terrorism is not a figment of imagination; hence those at the front of such occurrence must update their skills and techniques.
“Media practitioners are part of those at the fore front, when there is an occurrence, so I believe our members will immensely benefit from such training…We hope to work with the Africa Media & Democracy Institute in other areas of our work.”
Barima Adu Asamoa, Executive Director of the organisation said: “We welcome the joint initiative of Africa’s current effort in consolidating its democracies and the rule of law, which is potentially threatened by the phenomenon of terrorist attacks.
“It must therefore be supported by an effective and engaging media practitioners adequately equipped without escalating often highly volatile situations.”
Source: GNA/News Ghana
