NMC is to ensure standards - Media urged

Dormaa-Ahenkro (B/A), July 17, GNA - Mr. Joseph Amoah-Acheampong, District Correspondent of the Ghana News Agency (GNA) at Dormaa Ahenkro has said the National Media Commission was in existence to ensure quality journalistic standards in the country.

He therefore called on media practitioners to exhibit professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

Mr. Amoah-Acheampong was speaking at a day's workshop at Dormaa Ahenkro organised by Dormaa FM radio station to help its staff update their skills and knowledge to enhance their performance.

Speaking on "The importance of news in a radio station", Mr Amoah-Acheampong advised the participants to always crosscheck their facts before going on the air.

He asked them to highlight issues that would help improve the living conditions of the people.

Mr. Leonard Amengor, Chairman of the Brong-Ahafo Branch of Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), deplored the use of indecent language by some radio presenters, saying the practice was at variance with the nation's culture.

It is the responsibility of media practitioners to uphold the rich cultural heritage of our communities, he noted. He appealed to presenters not to play songs "that do not promote good moral values".

Mr. Kwabena Asuming-Gyamfi, Regional Correspondent of the Ghana Television (GTV), speaking on "Radio as a unifying factor in society", advised presenters to be circumspect when handling sensitive issues. He mentioned politics, chieftaincy, tribalism, religion and sports as among the sensitive issues, he said, adding that it was unethical for presenters to prevent people with opposing views to express themselves on a medium.

Mr. Kwadwo Yamoah, Regional Head of Programmes of Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, urged media personnel to exercise their freedom with responsibility. He advised radio interviewers not to take sides on issues under discussion.