20 Journalists complete training on Climate Change Communication
Twenty journalists from various media outlets across the country have completed a one-month Professional Development Course in Climate Communication.
The intensive month-long programme, a collaboration between the Centre for Climate and Sustainability Empowerment (CCSE) and Knutsford University, was designed to enhance the capacity of journalists, media practitioners and leaders of civil society organisations (CSOs).
The course, which was held in Accra, was to equip participants with the knowledge, tools and strategies necessary to communicate climate change issues effectively, influence public opinion and promote meaningful action.
It combined scientific insights, communication strategies and visual storytelling techniques to enable journalists to simplify complex climate science into accessible narratives for a wide range of audiences, including policymakers.
Facilitators
The one-month course was led by a group of facilitators, including the Vice Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Working Group I, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse; a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Communication Studies, University of Ghana, Dr Diana Sebbie; a Lecturer at Knutsford University, Clifford Ladzekpo, and the President of the Global Youth Development Institute, Timothy Damon.
Prof. Klutse guided participants through foundational concepts in climate science, providing valuable insights into the causes and impacts of climate change. This session aimed to deepen journalists' understanding of the subject, helping to enhance the credibility and accuracy of their reporting.
Building on this knowledge, Dr Sebbie led an interactive module that focused on practical tools and techniques for effective climate change communication.
The session highlighted strategies for framing messages for different audiences, addressing misinformation and utilising digital platforms to amplify climate stories.
Mr Ladzekpo facilitated a session on visual communication strategies, teaching participants how to enhance their storytelling through data visualisation, infographics and multimedia presentations.
The session also emphasised creating compelling visual narratives to simplify complex climate data and boost audience engagement.
Graduation
At the graduation ceremony, Mr Ladzekpo praised the participants for their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the course.
He stressed the importance of journalists using their platforms responsibly to shape narratives that promote climate resilience and drive sustainable development.
Prof. Klutse, on the other hand, expressed confidence in the graduates, noting, "This programme has equipped journalists with the skills to not only report on climate change but also advocate for solutions. Their voices will be crucial in shaping Ghana’s response to the climate crisis."
The graduates are expected to apply their newly acquired skills across various media platforms, launch climate-focused programmes and produce investigative reports, documentaries and advocacy campaigns.
Shaping climate narratives
The Founder and Executive Director of the Centre for Climate and Sustainability Empowerment (CCSE), Mr Kassim Hussein urged the journalists and media practitioners to take the lead in shaping climate narratives that raise awareness, influence policy and inspire meaningful action.
He highlighted the vital role the media plays in bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and public engagement on climate issues.
"Over the past month, our graduates have not only deepened their understanding of climate science, but have also developed the skills to transform complex information into compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences," Mr Hussein said.
"As journalists, you have the power to shape public perception, challenge misinformation, and spark real change. The world needs storytellers who can make climate change feel personal, urgent and actionable," he stated.
He also encouraged graduates to stay engaged by joining the Climate Communicators Network (CCN), a platform designed to foster collaboration, share resources, and amplify impactful climate reporting.
"This graduation marks the beginning of your journey. Through CCN, you'll continue to collaborate, innovate, and lead in climate storytelling. We’re excited to see you leverage your platforms to influence policies, mobilize communities, and advocate for a more sustainable future," he added.
Knutsford University's commitment
Esther Amankwah, from the Corporate Affairs Unit of Knutsford University, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to expanding the programme in the coming years, aiming to provide more training opportunities that support climate communication and advocacy across Africa and beyond.
“The Professional Development Course in Climate Communication represents a significant step in enhancing Ghana’s media capacity to address climate change. By empowering journalists, the programme aims to amplify voices that can drive policy change, inspire community action and raise global awareness,” she said.
Ms Amankwah also highlighted Knutsford’s recent transition to a fully-fledged university, following the award of a presidential charter by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
“This prestigious milestone marks the beginning of a new era of academic excellence and global impact."
"Our vision is to provide world-class, inclusive education and cultivate adaptable, innovative leaders who can tackle global challenges,” she stated.