By Michael Foli Jackidy, GNA
Ho (V/R), Feb. 13, GNA – The Volta Regional Chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA-Volta) has marked World Radio Day 2026 with a strong call for Artificial Intelligence (AI) to remain a supportive tool in broadcasting rather than a replacement for the human voice.
In a message to commemorate the day, the Association extended warm greetings to radio operators, practitioners, stakeholders and loyal listeners across the Volta region and beyond, acknowledging their continued contribution to the growth and relevance of radio.
World Radio Day, proclaimed by UNESCO in 2011 and first observed in 2012, is celebrated annually on February 13 to highlight radio’s enduring power as a medium for communication, education, information exchange and cultural preservation.
The GJA-Volta noted that radio has over the years remained the heartbeat of society, amplifying the voices of farmers, teachers, traders, traditional leaders and public officials, and serving as a trusted platform for sharing concerns, celebrating achievements and strengthening democratic participation.
In a statement signed by Mr Lambert Atsivor, Regional Secretary of GJA-Volta, and dated February 13, the theme for this year’s celebration, “AI: A Tool, Not a Voice,” was described as timely and significant.
The statement emphasised that although AI presents opportunities for innovation, efficiency and improved content production, it must not replace the authenticity, ethical judgment and emotional connection that human broadcasters bring to the profession.
“Radio is human at its core,” the Association stressed, adding that the warmth of the Ghanaian voice, the richness of local languages and the moral responsibility of journalists cannot be replicated by machines.
While acknowledging AI’s potential to enhance research, streamline newsroom operations and support content development, the GJA-Volta insisted that its use must align with professional standards and Ghanaian values of respect, inclusivity, accountability and fairness.
The Association commended radio station owners, managers, broadcasters, producers and technicians for their resilience and sacrifice, particularly amid financial constraints and declining advertising revenues.
It said their dedication continues to sustain radio as a guardian of democracy and a unifying force within communities.
GJA-Volta also called on media houses, regulators and technology partners to work together to safeguard the integrity of radio while responsibly embracing innovation for public good.
The public was further urged to desist from attacking journalists and media houses in the discharge of their duties, stressing that the media remained the conscience of society and must be protected.
The Association appealed to media proprietors to provide fair and realistic remuneration for practitioners to ensure that the industry attracts and retains competent professionals capable of delivering quality journalism.
“Radio speaks with the voice of humanity,” the statement concluded. “AI may assist, but it must never replace the conscience, authenticity and human touch of the Ghanaian journalist.”
World Radio Day 2026 was thus celebrated not only in recognition of radio’s enduring relevance but also as a reaffirmation of its human essence.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Lydia Kukua Asamoah