IPR Ghana’s Edzikanfo Lecture Series Kicks Off with a Pioneering Figur

The Institute of Public Relations (IPR) Ghana has launched the Annual Edzikanfo Lecture, a tribute to pioneers of the Public Relations profession, with the maiden edition celebrating Joseph Emmanuel Allotey-Pappoe, a former President of IPR Ghana and the African Public Relations Association (APRA). The ceremony took place on August 7 at the British Council Auditorium in Accra.

Celebrating a Pioneering Figure

The Annual Edzikanfo Lecture aims to honour pioneers of the Public Relations profession and draw lessons from their lives and contributions to professional practice and society. Esther A. N. Cobbah, FIPR, President of IPR Ghana, explained that Edzikanfo means “those who took the lead; those who went ahead of us; those who paved the way for us.” She added that the lecture would celebrate both living and departed professionals whose experiences offer valuable lessons for the profession's growth.

Legacy of Joseph Emmanuel Allotey-Pappoe

The ceremony celebrated the contributions of Joseph Emmanuel Allotey-Pappoe, a former President of IPR Ghana and APRA. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, Immediate Past President of APRA, reflected on JEAP's role in reviving the then-Federation of African Public Relations Associations (FAPRA) and strengthening collaboration among PR professionals across Africa. Describing him as an institution builder, he said, “JEAP understood that leadership was leaving an institution stronger than you found it. He restored belief, united professionals and left a legacy we can build on.”

A Commitment to Mentorship

Reflecting on JEAP's approach to mentorship, Dr Paulina Kuranchie, APR, Lecturer at Newcastle University and one of his mentees, said he went beyond offering advice to creating opportunities for young professionals to gain practical experience, build confidence and grow in the profession. She highlighted JEAP's belief in mentorship through apprenticeship and ethical practice, urging practitioners to invest in and guide the next generation.

Honoring a Legacy

Rev. Kwaku Osei Bimpong, FIPR, former General Manager of SSNIT and a professional colleague of JEAP, highlighted JEAP's contribution to the early development of IPR Ghana and the establishment of structures including its constitution, accreditation system, code of ethics and professional training programmes. He said JEAP was uncompromising in his commitment to standards, accountability and excellence. The ceremony also saw the presentation of the African Public Relations Association (APRA) Visionary Leader Award plaque to the Allotey-Pappoe family.

Emphasis on Ethics and Professionalism

As Guest of Honour, Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications, officially launched the Annual Edzikanfo Lecture and emphasised the continued importance of ethics, professionalism and public trust in communication practice. “Integrity will never become outdated. Truth will never become obsolete. Professional standards will never lose their value,” he said. The Minister also announced that his office would partner with IPR Ghana on initiatives to promote government communications practice and strengthen the capacity of young communication professionals and students.

What's Next

The Annual Edzikanfo Lecture will honour a different pacesetter each year, creating a platform for reflection, learning and drawing lessons for the future. The event was sponsored by SSNIT, with GRIDCo, Stratcomm Africa and ECG as partners. As the Institute of Public Relations Ghana continues to celebrate the contributions of pioneers in the profession, it remains to be seen who will be the next to be honoured with the Annual Edzikanfo Lecture.

Source: JOY