By Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Accra, May 12, GNA – Professor Kojo Yankah, a Distinguished Communicator and Statesman, has been celebrated as a legend by the Institute of Public Relations (IPR) Ghana for his remarkable contributions to the public relations industry.
The honour was bestowed upon him at a special “Legend Night” event, attended by industry executives, family, and friends.
The event served as a testament to Mr. Yankah’s enduring legacy and his profound impact on the public relations landscape in Ghana and beyond.
In his acceptance speech, Prof. Yankah expressed gratitude to IPR Ghana for the recognition, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and acknowledging the various influences that had shaped his life.
He shared his life history from his humble beginnings in Agona Duakwa and Agona Swedru, highlighting how his roots have profoundly influenced his perspective and career.
“I thank IPR Ghana for reminding me of myself on this occasion, because I feel blessed all the time. And I always do not fail to show gratitude to all the positive elements in the universe, whether it’s critical in my path, in whatever circumstances,” he said.
Prof. Yankah stressed the significance of cultural identity and the need for Africans to embrace their heritage.
He lamented the tendency to adopt foreign terminologies and perspectives, urging practitioners to delve into African philosophies to enrich the practice of public relations.
“Great personalities that I have met or read about throughout the world are more confident because they stand on the cultural foundations from which they come.
“Whether they’re British, Chinese, Indians, Europeans or neither. And I’m always grateful for the wisdom implanted in me by my parents and grandparents along the way,” he said.
Prof. Yankah charged public relations practitioners to question their understanding of the profession and to incorporate African perspectives into their practice.
He called for a deeper exploration of African philosophies to enhance the scholarship and application of public relations principles.
“We need all professions and enrich it from an African point of view. We are a smaller African base than we have been based to serve. That’s my experience,” he said.
He also shared his experiences studying African studies abroad and his work to bring African voices and knowledge into the academic and professional space.
Mrs. Esther Cobbah, President Institute of Public praised Mr. Yankah for his contribution to the PR industry.
She noted that the launch of the mentorship programme by her outfit would enable seasoned experts to share their experiences with emerging talents.
GNA
CA/