A1 Media College has held its maiden graduation and matriculation ceremony to celebrate its first batch of twelve trained journalists and to officially welcome a new group of students into the institution.
The ceremony, which took place over the weekend, was held under the theme “Foresight, Focus, and Fulfillment: A Compass for Thriving Professionals.”
Addressing the gathering at the event, Head of Studies at the College, Rev Sieh Kwabena Francis known in the media space as Nana Amakye Head of Studies explained the importance of vision, integrity, and ethical responsibility in shaping successful journalists who will contribute positively to national development.
“Journalism, indeed, is a noble profession. Through the work of journalists, nations grow and societies evolve. Our core mandate remains the same to inform, educate, and entertain but above all, to do so ethically and truthfully.”
According to him, A1 Media College is committed to producing journalists who are not only competent in media practice but also grounded in integrity and social responsibility.
Rev. Nana Amakye also expressed appreciation to its special guests Mr. Joseph Owusu Yeboah (Okyerema Kyeame), Director of Righteous Multimedia College, Rev. Adjei Okodie, Director of Kodie Media College; and Rev. Frederick Antwi, Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Bono East Regional Chairman for their mentorship, advice, and words of encouragement to the graduates and matriculants.
“At A1 Media College, we take pride in training our learners across various fields of journalism, ensuring they become versatile, reliable, and impactful professionals not only in their respective media organizations but also as responsible citizens in society. ”I am confident that our graduates will uphold professionalism in their work and will become some of the finest journalists this nation has ever produced.
“We are profoundly grateful to Mr. Joseph Owusu Yeboah (Okyerema Kyeame), Director of Righteous Multimedia College, Rev. Adjei Okodie, Director of Kodie Media College, and Rev. Frederick Antwi, GJA Regional Chairman for Bono East, for their invaluable advice and words of encouragement to our graduates and matriculants.”
Speaking on the event’s theme, Mr. Edmond Donkor, Principal of Jesus Mission College, speaking on behalf of the Director of A1 Media College, Rev. Philip Amoah, urged the graduands to embrace foresight, focus, and fulfillment as guiding principles in their professional journey.
”I want to speak on the theme “Foresight, Focus, and Fulfillment: A Compass for Thriving Professionals.”
”As journalists, foresight is the foundation of our calling. It is the ability to envision where we are headed in this noble profession and to set a clear path for the kind of impact we wish to make. Without vision, a journalist drifts, reacting to events rather than shaping conversations that drive progress.”
He further encouraged young journalists to remain focused amid distractions and to maintain originality in their work.
“Having foresight means entering journalism with purpose. It means asking yourself, why am I in this profession? Is it to be famous, or to make a meaningful contribution to society? The stories we tell must be guided by this vision, will they serve as catalysts for positive change, or will they create fear and panic?
“Equally important is focus. As journalists, we must stay committed to our professional calling. The media landscape is filled with distractions, fame, money, and external influence can easily sway us from our ethical path. Yet, a true journalist remains grounded, committed to truth, and guided by integrity.
“You can admire role models in the industry, but never lose your originality. Learn from them, but don’t imitate them entirely. Every journalist must find their own unique voice, style, and approach. Authenticity is what sets you apart and earns you credibility.”
Mr. Edmond Donkor, expressed optimism about the future of its graduates, affirming that they have been well-equipped to uphold professional standards and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s media landscape.
“The third element, fulfillment, comes when your work produces positive results, when your stories inform, educate, and inspire. Journalism becomes truly fulfilling when your reporting drives change, empowers communities, and strengthens democracy.
“With foresight to guide you, focus to keep you grounded, and fulfillment as your goal, you will not only thrive as journalists but also contribute meaningfully to national development.”
The Bono East Regional Chairman of the Ghana Journalist Association, Rev. Frederick Antwi, on his part encouraged graduates to uphold the principles of ethics, professionalism, and accuracy, which were described as the three essential pillars of journalism.
He disclosed that a journalist who adheres to and upholds these principles has the potential to excel in the field and earn respect within the media fraternity and the community.
“I want to remind you all here that journalism rests on three critical pillars: ethics, professionalism, and accuracy. If you lack these principles, you will struggle to survive in this profession.
“Uphold ethical standards at all times. Do not chase sensational stories just to gain attention or popularity such shortcuts often lead to trouble.
“Remain professional, because professionalism will sustain you long after fame fades. Remember, this job may bring you money and recognition, but without integrity, both will be short-lived.
“Lastly, be accurate in your reportage. Avoid exaggeration. Report with precision and honesty. Accuracy builds trust and trust is the lifeblood of journalism.”
Source: Elvisanokyenews.com
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