Accra: The Institute of Public Relations (IPR), Ghana has launched a comprehensive programme of activities to commemorate this year’s World Public Relations Day, celebrated globally on July 16. This year’s theme: ‘Building bridges and navigating polarisation,’ highlights the essential role public relations professionals play in combating misinformation, rebuilding institutional trust, and promoting unity through transparent communication. World Public Relations Day marks the birth anniversary of Ivy Lee, widely regarded as the father of modern public relations.
According to Ghana News Agency, under the leadership of IPR Ghana President Esther A. N. Cobbah, the Institute has announced month-long events designed to engage a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including PR professionals, students, decision-makers, and the general public. Activities include a national webinar on ‘PR and Our Stakeholders, Bridging the Gap,’ an Executive Breakfast Meeting with CEOs and ministers, panel discussions on truth-telling and governance, and student outreach across communication and journalism schools.
In addition, IPR Ghana will roll out community impact projects providing pro bono PR support to NGOs and underserved institutions. The Institute will also inaugurate new regional chapters in the Northern and Middle Belt zones to extend its reach and support professional development. Other planned activities are a national survey on the aspirations of young PR professionals, strategic partnerships with the Ghana Health Service and the DVLA for advocacy campaigns, and participation in the maiden conference of national and regional public relations officers within the health sector.
A digital campaign promoting the strategic value of PR across sectors will run alongside media collaborations featuring interviews, op-eds, and features designed to raise public awareness of the profession. Mr Peter Martey Agbeko, Chair of IPR’s International Relations Committee and a member of the Governing Council, highlighted the initiatives, saying it reflected IPR Ghana’s commitment to elevating the PR profession, building national capacity, and advancing the strategic relevance of communications in governance and national development.