On Wednesday, 29th April 2026, the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel hosted a landmark gathering of scholars, media professionals, policymakers, and technology innovators at the Media Convergence Conference, organised by the Africa Media Bureau in collaboration with the School of Information and Communication Studies. The one-day event, themed “The Future of Media Practice, Education and Policy in Ghana,” brought together diverse voices to reflect on the shifting terrain of journalism in the growing digital age.
The conference created space for robust dialogue on how traditional media outlets such as radio, television, and print are being reshaped by digital technologies that influence not only how stories are told but also how they are consumed and monetised. With advertising revenues shrinking and audience behaviour evolving rapidly, participants underscored the urgency of rethinking business models and newsroom practices to ensure sustainability.
In a keynote address, George Twumasi, CEO of ABN Holdings and Co-founder of the Africa Public Interest Media Initiative, examined the challenges of declining traditional audiences, platform dominance, and the need for newsroom adaptation.
Mr. George Twumasi delivering the keynote
Representing the School of Information and Communication Studies, Professor Abena Animwaa Yeboah-Banin contributed to the discussions by stressing the importance of aligning scholarly inquiry with the lived dynamics of media practice. Her expertise in brand communication, media development, and gender representation offered a multidimensional lens on the transformation underway.
Prof. Yeboah-Banin speaking during the panel discussion
A recurring concern was the gap between academic training and industry realities. Stakeholders questioned whether current curricula sufficiently prepare graduates with the technological fluency, ethical grounding, and practical skills needed in converged media environments. Calls were made for stronger partnerships between universities and media organisations, with proposals for expanded internships, collaborative research, and curriculum renewal.
Key industry leaders also shared perspectives. Samuel Attah-Mensah, CEO of Channel One TV and Citi FM, highlighted how technology has revolutionised storytelling and audience engagement, urging newsrooms to adapt while safeguarding ethics and credibility.
Samuel Attah-Mensah,CEO of Channel One TV and Citi FM
Panel sessions explored Ghana’s convergence journey, strategies for monetisation and sustainability, and the future of media education. The conference culminated in a communiqué outlining recommendations for policy reform, curriculum updates, and ethical frameworks to guide Ghana’s media ecosystem in the digital age.
Panelists for session on Ghana’s Convergence Journey
UG SICS faculty and student delegation at the event