Nana Kwasi Gyan-Apenteng, a seasoned journalist and ex-Chairman of the National Media Commission, has unveiled his book, “TRUTH OVER SPEED, Journalism Manual for the Digital Age.”
The event was held in Accra on Thursday, June 27, 2024.
The introduction of the 137-page book drew significant attention. Among the attendees were distinguished personalities such as the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amotia Ofori Painin; Executive Director of Salt and Light Ministries, Rev Joyce Aryee; CEO of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority, Dr Osafohene Afua Asare; Former Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa and Dean of Communications Studies of the Wisconsin University in Ghana, Prof Kwame Karikari, and the Senior Vice President of MTN Group Markets, Ebenezer Asante.
Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, called on journalists in the country to uphold truth and integrity, show compassion, and commit to justice.
He highlighted the importance of journalists advocating for the underprivileged, amplifying their stories, and holding those in power accountable.
The Okyenhene emphasised the crucial role journalists play in society, underlining their duty to seek the truth, challenge those in power, and ensure accountability.
Prof Karikari, the Dean of Communications Studies of the Wisconsin University in Ghana, reviewed the book and stated that “The manual is a welcome guide to professional practice in today’s complex environment of information overload, over-abundance and speed.”
“In this environment truth, credible and comprehensive information are at great risk of compromise. These critical challenges, and the myriad problems of professionalism in the practice of journalism in Ghana and Africa today, are the tasks this Manual effectively grapples with.”
He encouraged everyone, particularly journalists, media houses, and owners, to read the book, noting that it provides comprehensive insights into the profession in the current era.
Ebenezer Asante, Senior Vice President of MTN Group Market, championed the importance of prioritizing truth over speed in journalism.
He stressed that truthful communication, accountability, responsible media sharing, and fact-based reporting are vital in developing societies and urged the private sector to foster media literacy, support independent media outlets through forward-thinking policies, and promote responsible journalism.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nana Kwasi Gyan-Apenteng is a Communication, Media, and Culture consultant. An experienced journalist and columnist, he has served in various news organizations, including the Graphic Communication Group, West Africa Magazine, and African Topics.
He is a former Chairman of the National Media Commission and a past President of the African Communication Regulators Network. Nana was the President of the Ghana Association of Writers from 2010 to 2019.
He has taught part-time at several institutions, including Vauxhall College in London, the European University College for Peace Studies in Austria, the University of Media Arts and Communication (GIJ), and the African University College of Communication in Accra, Ghana.
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