The Institute of Public Relations, Ghana (IPR) is prioritizing ethical communication to foster peace in the lead-up to the national elections, according to a recent press release.

As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, IPR President and CEO of Stratcomm Africa, Ms. Esther A.N. Cobbah, led a delegation to meet with Rev. Dr. Ernest Adu-Gyamfi, Chairman of the National Peace Council, on July 29, 2024.

The visit aimed at discussing how the IPR could support the Peace Council's efforts during this crucial election year. 

With the anniversary theme “Public Relations for Value Creation,” IPR is focusing on ethical communication to promote peace. Ms. Cobbah briefed Rev. Dr. Adu-Gyamfi on various activities planned for the anniversary celebration, including events involving IPR student chapters and training for communicators of the two main political parties, NPP and NDC.

Rev. Dr. Adu-Gyamfi praised the IPR's theme, acknowledging the significant challenges posed by misinformation and disinformation in political activities. He emphasized the need for continuous support from institutions like the IPR to ensure peace before, during, and after the 2024 elections. 

He welcomed the IPR's interest in the Peace Council's work and expressed eagerness to collaborate.

Particularly noteworthy was the involvement of IPR student chapters in promoting ethical communication. Rev. Dr. Adu-Gyamfi expressed hope that such activities would contribute to national peace. He accepted a proposal from Ms. Cobbah to include a representative from IPR on the National Election Response platform, enhancing the Peace Council's communication efforts.

“The importance of ethical communication in political activities cannot be overstated,” said Rev. Dr. Adu-Gyamfi. “I am sincerely delighted that the Institute of Public Relations, Ghana, has chosen to highlight this in its 50th anniversary celebration. We are happy to collaborate with the Institute.”

Ms. Cobbah emphasized IPR's commitment to fostering a culture of ethical communication across Ghanaian society. 

“The value of communication is appreciated when it helps to meet societal needs. This year, as IPR celebrates our 50th anniversary, there is an opportunity to contribute to the realization of national peace and harmony as we go into national elections,” she said. 

“Support to the work of the National Peace Council is a modest contribution from IPR, and we are delighted to have been given audience by the Chair of the Council.”