By Emelia B. Addae
Koforidua, Oct. 23, GNA – The Institute of Public Relations (IPR), Ghana, has opened its 2026 National Public Relations (PR) Summit and 38th Annual General Meeting with a call on practitioners to strengthen ethical standards and leadership in the profession.
The three-day event, running from October 22 to 24, in Koforidua, is on the theme: “Public Relations and Leadership Readiness” and has brought together practitioners from public and private institutions across the country, alongside traditional authorities from the New Juaben Traditional Area.
Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications, represented by Hajia Shamima Muslim, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, commended the Institute for its accreditation and mentorship programmes and the maiden Edzikanfo Lecture honouring J.E. Allotey-Pappoe.
He announced that Cabinet had approved the IPR Ghana Bill, with government committed to securing its passage into law by the end of the year. The Bill is expected to strengthen professional standards and establish a structured framework for the practice of public relations.
He also said discussions on establishing a permanent secretariat for the Institute were nearing completion, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting its growth.
Mr Alban Sumana Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament, cautioned against fabricated content and manipulated information on social media, urging practitioners to prioritise accuracy and ethical communication over speed.
He described PR professionals as strategic advisers who must anticipate public concerns, guide leadership, and build trust through honest communication.
“Public Relations must clarify facts, not conceal them; provide context, not manipulate opinion; and help institutions build genuine credibility rather than create an appearance of excellence unsupported by actions,” he said.
Mr. Bagbin urged public institutions to involve communication professionals in decision-making and encouraged practitioners to uphold confidentiality, strengthen their skills, and maintain professional standards.
He also called on Parliament and other democratic institutions to communicate clearly, listen to citizens, and create more opportunities for public participation in governance.
Madam Esther A.N. Cobbah, President of IPR Ghana, said PR practitioners must develop their leadership skills and apply them to serve their organisations and communities.
She highlighted efforts to secure legislation requiring formal training for professional practice and to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements.
Madam Cobbah urged practitioners to adhere to the Athens Code of Ethics and encouraged the public to report unprofessional conduct, assuring that the Institute’s disciplinary committee was ready to act.
She cautioned against equating eloquence or good presentation with professional competence, stressing the risks of entrusting communication responsibilities to untrained individuals.
Mrs Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, Eastern Regional Minister, said transparency and public trust were essential to effective governance and national development.
She identified trade, tourism, agribusiness and investment as key areas of potential in the Eastern Region, urging PR practitioners to use strategic communication and destination marketing to promote them.
Mrs Awatey invited IPR Ghana to partner with the region to attract investors, tourists and development partners while showcasing its cultural heritage and agribusiness opportunities.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Emelia B. Addae
Email: [email protected]