ACCRA, Ghana, 8th November: President John Dramani Mahama has called on the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and experienced media editors to create more opportunities for young journalists to acquire practical newsroom skills through mentorship.
He said developing the next generation of journalists requires deliberate efforts by experienced professionals to share their knowledge and guide younger reporters in their work.
Speaking at the 30th GJA Media Awards, President Mahama stressed that young journalists must be exposed to practical reporting experiences, particularly in areas requiring critical analysis and investigative skills.
He identified the examination of public accounts as one of the important competencies that young reporters should learn from experienced editors.
“I encourage the Association and experienced editors to make room for younger reporters to learn this work,” he said.
He added that a young journalist who receives proper guidance in examining public accounts would carry that valuable skill into subsequent assignments.
“A young journalist who can sit with an editor and work through a set of public accounts will carry that skill into every story that follows,” he stated.
The President noted that professional development is an important component of strengthening journalism and ensuring that media practitioners can effectively hold public institutions accountable.
President Mahama also announced that the government had allocated GH¢10 million as seed funding for the reactivated Media Development Fund in the 2027 budget.
The fund is expected to support journalist welfare, professional development, investigative reporting, digital literacy and safety training.
He said he would personally engage corporate institutions to mobilise additional resources to strengthen the fund.
The President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting media development while respecting the editorial independence of journalists and media organisations.
LISTEN TO PRESIDENT JOHN MAHAMA IN THE AUDIO BELOW👇:
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh(#RomeoWrites✍️) Presidential Affairs Correspondent | Ghana 🇬🇭