GJA Ashanti Chairman Calls for Stronger Media–Research Collaboration
GJA Ashanti Chairman says stronger collaboration between journalists and researchers is key to promoting sustainability and public awareness.
- Kofi Adu Domfeh advocates closer media–research collaboration.
- Calls for better communication of scientific findings.
- Raises concerns over climate change and illegal mining.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Kofi Adu Domfeh, has called for closer collaboration between researchers and the media to promote sustainable development and ensure scientific knowledge reaches the wider public.
Speaking at the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources (FRNR) Seminar Series at the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Mr. Domfeh emphasized the importance of translating research findings into accessible information that can inform public policy and decision-making.
According to him, one of the major challenges facing the research community is the inability to effectively communicate scientific findings to ordinary citizens.
He urged researchers and journalists to work more closely to ensure that research outputs are presented in a manner that is easy to understand and relevant to the public.
Mr. Domfeh also highlighted the growing impact of climate change and unsustainable exploitation of natural resources, noting that changing weather patterns are already affecting key sectors such as agriculture, health, and infrastructure.
He stressed that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a reality that continues to affect everyday life and requires urgent attention.
The GJA Chairman further expressed concern over environmental issues including plastic pollution, electronic waste, and illegal mining, warning that the pursuit of economic gains without regard for environmental consequences is threatening sustainability efforts.
He described illegal mining as one of Ghana’s most serious environmental challenges, citing its destructive effects on water bodies, forests, farmlands, and local livelihoods.
Despite these challenges, Mr. Domfeh acknowledged the efforts of young people, civil society organisations, and private businesses in promoting conservation, renewable energy, and recycling initiatives.
He, however, maintained that the media has a critical role to play in driving environmental awareness and encouraging action.
According to him, journalists must continue to educate the public, simplify complex scientific issues, and keep environmental concerns at the forefront of national discussions.
“The media is part of the ecosystem and has a responsibility to transform environmental concerns into meaningful action for sustainability,” he stated.
The seminar featured interactive discussions among faculty members, researchers, and participants on the role of the media in communicating sustainability and environmental issues.
