Ask Media Institute, an entity under the Royal Image Group, has held its 10th congregation in Kumasi, with over 100 students graduating under various media programmes.
The Institute offers practical media training in journalism, media production, radio and television program hosting, camera handling, and video editing.
Board Chair of ASK Media Institute, Professor Charles Marfo, entreated the graduates to desist from sensational journalism but be factual and abide by the ethical tenets of the profession.
“We seek to contribute to the growth of the country because when information is widely spread it turns to help the nation,” he stated.
CEO of Royal Image Group, Dr. Amankwaa Agyemang, recounted the struggles he went through to birth the Institute.
“As a young journalist, the opportunity came for me to operate my television channel in 2013, but I didn’t have the logistics or work. I had to train the few people who were willing to work with me, and that made me start ASK Media in 2014. Even though the station [RTV] has been burnt to ashes twice, I encouraged myself to press on, and this is how far God has brought me. I want to double my efforts in the coming years,” he stated.
Benkumhene of Gomoa Amanfrom, Nana Abenaa Eturuba, advised the young journalists to desist from using their platforms to preach hooliganism but to promote Ghanaian culture.
Prophet Nicolas Osei, popularly known as Kumchacha, used the opportunity to caution the media to be factual and accurate in their reportage before, during and after the 2024 general election.
“The media is not what it used to be; everybody wants to say, ‘I published it first’, so issues are not thoroughly investigated. This menace needs to stop. The media must be objective for us to enjoy our peace and not to rush to say things they ought not to say,” he pleaded.
Archbishop Dr. Prince Hampher of Liberty Global Christian Church and Founder of Prince Hampher World Outreach, also advised the electorate to commit to peaceful election.
“Do not allow anyone to influence you with money; your vote is important to God and crucial for the success of the nation, so go and vote in peace,” he said.
He presented a citation to Dr. Amankwaa for his selfless contribution to nation building.