By Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Accra, May 12, GNA – The Institute of Public Relations (IPR) Ghana has launched a comprehensive mentorship programme aimed at significantly enhancing the skills and ethical standards within the public relations profession.
Mrs Esther Cobbah, President IPR, underscored the pivotal role the initiative would play in bridging the gap between experienced professionals and emerging talents.
The mentorship programme was launched at the “Legends Night” to honour seasoned Public Relations Practitioner, Professor Kojo Yankah.
Prof Yankah, the current Board Chairperson of Media General, was honoured for his contribution to the public relations industry in Ghana.
Mrs Cobbah highlighted that the mentorship programme would operate on multiple levels, including general mentorship through corridor and stairway interactions, structured group mentorship sessions with senior members, and personalised one-on-one pairings.
“This multi-faceted approach is designed to provide mentees with varied avenues for learning and guidance.”
“One of the things that our members have asked for is access to those who have walked this path ahead of them. We are structuring how you have that access,” she said.
She emphasised the importance of practical learning, saying newly qualified doctors performed surgery without practical experience.
The President noted that the mentorship programme would focus on career coaching, practical problem-solving, and crucial ethical guidance.
Mrs Cobbah stressed the ethical responsibilities of PR practitioners, noting that their work could have significant consequences if not guided by a strong moral compass.
The IPR President called on experienced professionals to volunteer their time, listening skills, and honest feedback to nurture the next generation.
She urged young professionals to actively engage by asking questions, showing up, staying curious, and learning attentively, emphasising the importance of receiving feedback constructively.
“We want to build a strong community of excellent professionals who see the Institute as a badge of honour,” Mrs Cobbah said.
She said IPR envisioned a cohort of skilled practitioners making their mark locally, continentally, and globally.
Mrs Cobbah announced that Ghana would host the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) Global Golden Awards Gala on October 3, 2025.
She noted that the gala would be preceded by a knowledge-sharing conference under the auspices of the President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama.
Mrs Cobbah reiterated the ongoing efforts to pass the IPR bill, which she stated would ensure that only qualified professionals practice public relations in the country, necessitating continuous professional development (CPD) for members.
GNA
CA/