NMC TO SET STANDARD FOR ELECTRONIC BROADCASTING


The National Media Commission is to set up a minimum standard by which programme content of the electronic media will be assessed. 

The standards will be in line with international best practices and conform to Ghana’s constitutional guarantees on freedom of expression and the independence and freedom of the media. 

The Chairman of the Commission, Kwesi Gyan-Apenteng who announced this at the inauguration of the Ashanti Regional Media Advisory Committee in Kumasi said the regulations are required in the public interest, to make the electronic media alive to its responsibilities.

 The NMC Chairman explained that the principle behind the setting up of Regional Media Advisory Committees is critical as they serve as a back-up for the National Media Commission to be able to monitor and engage media players across the country. 

According to Mr. Gyan-Apenteng, next year will see the completion of the switch from analogue to digital television which will create opportunities for more broadcast channels in Ghana.

 It is for this reason that attention must be paid to programme content in broadcasting so that the nation does not turn a positive resource and asset into a cause for regret and pain as has been the experience in some countries. 

The NMC also plans to set up an Ombudsman system for the media. It will involve providing requisite training for at least one journalist at every media house to become the conscience of that institution. 

The internal Ombudsman will be tasked to ensure that facts of stories are checked, corrections are promptly made and that the media live up to the standards set by various codes, regulations and the terms of their registrations and licensing.

 The Executive Secretary of the NMC, George Sarpong said the Commission is concerned about the peace and stability of the country and the role of the media as the country enters an election year.

 The Commission, he noted will ensure the media remain focused and avoid acts that are likely to throw the nation into chaos.

 A former Chairman of the NMC, Paul Adu Gyamfi is the Chairman of the seven-member Ashanti Regional Media Advisory Committee. 

He promised to work hard to ensure that the mandate of the Commission is fulfilled.

 A Kumasi High Court Judge, Mr. Samuel Obeng Diawuo sworn-in the new members into office.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

JUTE FACTORY IS BACK

THE STATE OF KUMASI'S 'INDUSTRIAL AREA

KWAMANG SHS NEEDS URGENT HELP