IPR GHANA INAUGURATES STUDENT CHAPTER AT ACCRA TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY
March 5, 2025
The Institute of Public Relations (IPR) Ghana has officially inaugurated its student chapter at Accra Technical University (ATU), marking a significant step in bridging academic training with professional public relations (PR) practice in Ghana. The event, held on the university campus, brought together esteemed faculty, industry leaders, and students to celebrate this milestone in PR education and professional development.
The inauguration commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Collins Owusu Kwaning, Head of the Department of Liberal and Communication Studies at ATU, who emphasized the university’s commitment to equipping students with the necessary skills to excel in the fast-evolving communication industry. He highlighted the importance of
professional alignment, networking, and exposure to real-world challenges, underscoring ATU’s proactive role in preparing students for the demands of the global job market.
In his opening remarks, Professor Amevi Acakpovi, Acting Vice-Chancellor of ATU, reaffirmed the university’s dedication to fostering professional excellence through strategic partnerships such as the one with IPR Ghana. He stressed the importance of ethical and responsible PR practices, particularly in an era where artificial intelligence
(AI) is reshaping the communication landscape. He urged students to embrace continuous learning, mentorship, and the networking opportunities that IPR Ghana membership provides.
The President of the African Public Relations Association (APRA), Mr. Arik Karani, shared an inspiring account of his PR career, which spans multiple sectors, including healthcare, water, aviation, and government. He emphasized the significance of the “5 Ps” of professional success – Passion, Perfection, Perseverance, Persistence, and
Purpose – and challenged students to go beyond academic excellence to develop real-world expertise, adaptability, and resilience.
Delivering the inaugural address, Ms. Esther A. N. Cobbah, President of IPR Ghana and CEO of Stratcomm Africa, underscored the value of professional training in public relations. She urged students to demonstrate the impact of their profession, emphasizing that “value begets value”—only by showcasing their professional worth can PR practitioners earn the respect and recognition they deserve. She encouraged students to take their involvement in IPR Ghana seriously, leveraging mentorship, networking, and training opportunities to enhance their expertise and career prospects.
Ms. Cobbah also reaffirmed IPR Ghana’s commitment to professional excellence, noting that the Institute has been celebrating its 50th anniversary under the theme
“Public Relations for Value Creation.” She encouraged students to take pride in their
chosen profession and work diligently to uphold ethical standards, integrity, and the
credibility of public relations in Ghana.
The inauguration of the IPR Ghana Student Chapter at ATU represents a significant
step in shaping the future of public relations in the country. The collaboration between
academia and industry will provide students with hands-on experience, mentorship, and
opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the profession. As the event concluded,
students took their oath of leadership and membership, pledging to uphold the values of
IPR Ghana.
The occasion was graced by representatives from the Public Relations Society of Kenya
and other distinguished industry professionals, who commended ATU’s dedication to
advancing PR education in Africa.
ABOUT INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS, (IPR) GHANA
The Institute of Public Relations, Ghana (IPR, Ghana), is a professional body for public relations
practitioners in Ghana. It was founded in 1972 and registered as a professional body under the
Professional Bodies Registration Decree, 1973 (NRCD 143). Among its roles, IPR, Ghana exists to
provide a professional structure for the practice of public relations and enhance the ability and status of its
members as professional practitioners.
For more information, visit www.iprghana.org
MEDIA CONTACT
Esenam Agyekumhene
IPR, Ghana Secretariat
233500481062
info@iprghana.org
END