URO Sensitizes Campus Writers and Bloggers on the Need to Protect the Image of the University
The University Relations Officer (URO) of the University, Dr. Daniel Norris Bekoe has organised a day’s workshop for student bloggers and writers at the Gardiner Conference Room on 19th February 2020. The aim of the workshop was to sensitize the internal writers and bloggers on relevant news items and how to collectively work to project the positive image of the KNUST.
Dr. Daniel Norris Bekoe in his presentation mentioned that management of KNUST appreciates and values the efforts of student bloggers in trying to start a vocation in the area of journalism. He, however, cautioned that journalism has well established code of ethics which need to be respected. He stressed that the respect for truth and the public's right to information are fundamental principles of journalism; this right must however be exercised bearing in mind the need to be honest, fair, independent, and show respect for the rights of others.
He reminded the student bloggers that they are students of a noble University and such, they must abreast themselves with the code of conducts governing their rights and responsibilities as students of KNUST and not fall foul by dragging the name of the University into disrepute. He observed that KNUST is the best University in Ghana and the 12th best on the African continent. The University has also swept several prestigious awards within the last 3 years. Additionally, the University has trained several intellectuals who occupy enviable positions in Ghana. All these have earned an enviable reputation for the University which need to be guarded jealously.
He revealed that the University is feverishly preparing to celebrate its 70th anniversary, and therefore, the protection of the high reputation of the University must always be their topmost priorities. He thus advised bloggers of the University, to help project the positive image of KNUST through positive reportage and work in the best interest of KNUST.
Dr. Bekoe also advised students to be mindful of what they post on social media as some negative posts could result in unexpected or unintended impression that may live to hunt them throughout their lifetime. He tasked editors of the various student bloggers to constantly highlight the code of conducts in the students guide for the benefit of their colleagues.
Dr. Daniel Nkrumah, Lecturer at the Department of Language and Communication Sciences took participants through the Gatekeeping role of the media. He pointed out that journalism thrives on credibility, accuracy, balance and fairness. He therefore cautioned the bloggers to refrain from biased reportage and charged them to speak to all parties making news to ensure that they produce balanced news items.
In the questions and answers session, attendees were given the opportunity to engage with the various speakers and made clarifications on the ethics and practice of responsible journalism.
