Interior Ministry to train journalists

Mr Mark Owen Woyongo, Minister of the Interior, says he would explore the possibility of organising training workshops on reporting on security issues for journalists.

Mr Woyongo who said this at a media soiree organised by the Ministry in Accra at the weekend, said the training would expose journalists to security and peace issues to enable them to give accurate reports because matters concerning the sector are very sensitive.

He said the training programme would involve the police and other security agencies who would help identify resource persons and the logistics needed for the training.

Mr Woyongo said security issues should be a specialised area and reporters need to be taken through the rudiments of peace and security to enhance their expertise.

He said when issues are well understood, reporters who are in a rush to beat the headlines could do so accurately, creditably and balanced.

Mr Woyongo said he has identified all flash points in the country and plans are being put in place to step up security in those areas.

He advised journalist to be cautious whilst reporting from such areas in order not to create chaos.

The Minister appealed to political parties to know that elections are not do or die affair and while they are campaigning they should bear in mind that Ghana is the only country they have and should be careful so that the outcome does not attract violence.

Mr James Agalga, Deputy Minister said the interaction was timely in order to bridge the gap between the Ministry and the media.