UK-Ghana ST&I Initiative Equips Journalists to Transform Science and Technology Reporting

A cohort of twenty-five journalists and digital content creators in Ghana have commenced an intensive three-day training workshop designed to bolster science communication under the UK–Ghana Science, Technology, and Innovation (ST&I) Media Capacity Programme. This initiative, a critical component of the broader five-year UK–Ghana ST&I Strategy (2023–2028), seeks to demystify complex scientific concepts and enhance public engagement with technological advancements across the country. By empowering media professionals with specialized tools and knowledge, the programme aims to ensure that scientific progress is accurately and effectively reflected in the national discourse.

The curriculum focuses on essential competencies including research evaluation, sophisticated interview techniques, and multimedia storytelling, alongside a rigorous focus on the ethics of science reporting. Abigail Opoku Mensah, representing the Ghana National Research Fund, noted that while Ghana has seen significant scientific and research progress, a persistent communication gap often prevents these benefits from reaching the grassroots level. She emphasized that journalists act as the vital bridge between academic researchers and the general public, translating technical data into actionable information for citizens and policymakers alike.

Furthering this perspective, Professor Jerry John Kponyo from the Responsible AI Lab (RAIL) underscored that accurate science communication is not just about reporting facts, but ensuring that research translates into tangible societal benefits. He advocated for a paradigm shift in how researchers and journalists collaborate, suggesting that scientific findings should be translated into local Ghanaian languages to maximize accessibility and impact. As the workshop progresses, the ultimate goal remains the creation of a robust media ecosystem capable of driving Ghana’s development through informed, science-based public dialogue.