Gertrude Ankah, a dedicated journalist with Graphic Online, has garnered significant recognition through her nomination for the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) Media Awards. This prestigious event, set to take place on November 30, 2024, at the CSIR Head Office in Accra, highlights the crucial role of journalism in advancing the discourse around agricultural technologies in Ghana.
The OFAB Media Awards serve as a platform to honor journalists from various media sectors—including print, online, radio, and television—who have made substantial contributions to the dialogue surrounding Ghana’s agricultural landscape. By focusing on the theme “Credible Science Reporting: A Tool for Science-Led Economic Development in Ghana,” this year’s ceremony emphasizes the importance of accurate and insightful reporting in fostering a deeper understanding of agricultural biotechnology among the public.
Established in 2017, the awards assess submissions based on several key criteria, including the scientific accuracy of biotechnology reporting, the originality and clarity in conveying complex scientific topics, and the overall public value of the work. These standards underscore the importance of credible journalism in shaping public perception and policy regarding agricultural advancements.
The implications of Ankah’s nomination extend beyond personal achievement; they highlight a growing recognition of the need for informed discussions on agricultural biotechnology. As OFAB, an initiative of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), seeks to bridge the gap between scientists, policymakers, and the public, the role of journalists becomes increasingly vital. Through their work, journalists like Ankah contribute to demystifying biotechnology, promoting its potential to transform agriculture, and ensuring that the public is well-informed about its benefits and impacts.
This recognition not only celebrates individual excellence in journalism but also reinforces the broader mission of fostering knowledge-sharing and raising awareness about agricultural innovations. As Ghana navigates the challenges and opportunities within its agricultural sector, the work of journalists will be essential in guiding informed decision-making and promoting sustainable practices that can drive economic development.
