IPR President cautions against equating eloquence with PR competence

President of the Institute of Public Relations (IPR), Ghana, Esther A.N. Cobbah, has cautioned organisations against equating eloquence and polished presentation with professional competence, warning that entrusting communication responsibilities to untrained individuals could undermine institutional credibility and public trust.

She said effective public relations required specialised knowledge, ethical judgement and leadership skills beyond the ability to speak confidently or present information attractively.

Madam Cobbah made the remarks at the opening of the IPR Ghana’s 2026 National Public Relations Summit and 38th Annual General Meeting in Koforidua, Eastern Region, on Thursday, October 22.

The three-day event, which ends on October 24, is being held under the theme, “Public Relations and Leadership Readiness”, bringing together practitioners from public and private institutions across the country.

She said the Institute was working to strengthen professional standards, including efforts to secure legislation that would establish a formal framework for public relations practice and help bridge the gap between academic training and industry requirements.

Madam Cobbah urged practitioners to uphold the Athens Code of Ethics and called on the public to report unprofessional conduct, assuring that the Institute’s disciplinary committee was prepared to act on complaints.

She emphasised that public relations practitioners must continuously develop their leadership capabilities and apply them in ways that benefit their organisations and the wider community.

The Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, represented by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Hajia Shamima Muslim, announced that Cabinet had approved the IPR Ghana Bill, with government committed to securing its passage into law by the end of the year.

The proposed legislation is expected to strengthen professional standards and establish a structured framework for the industry. Discussions on a permanent secretariat for the Institute were also nearing completion.

Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, in a related address, warned against fabricated content and manipulated information on social media, urging communication professionals to prioritise accuracy and ethical conduct over speed.

He said public relations practitioners must serve as strategic advisers who anticipate public concerns, guide institutional leadership and build trust through honest communication.

“Public Relations must clarify facts, not conceal them; provide context, not manipulate opinion,” he said, urging public institutions to involve communication professionals in decision-making.

Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey called for stronger partnerships between IPR Ghana and the region to promote tourism, agribusiness, trade and investment.

She said strategic communication and destination marketing could help showcase the region’s cultural heritage and economic opportunities while attracting investors and development partners.