The University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) has recently launched its first doctoral program in Media and Communication, namely the PhD in Media and Communication. This significant initiative aims to bridge the gap between Media, Arts, Communication, and academia, marking a pivotal moment in advancing the field of Media and Communication education, not just in Ghana but across Africa. As a specialized institution dedicated to this discipline, UniMAC provides students with essential intellectual and practical tools necessary to navigate the changing landscape of media and communication. The introduction of the PhD program emphasizes UniMAC’s commitment to training future scholars who will contribute to both research and teaching in this vital area of study.
The Vice Chancellor of UniMAC, Professor Eric Opoku Mensah, emphasized that the launch of this doctoral program represents a substantial step toward addressing existing gaps in Communication and Media education. As the institution assumes a leadership role in communication education and research, it does so with a distinctive advantage, boasting the largest concentration of Professors and Doctorate holders in Media and Communication Studies in Ghana. This unique positioning allows UniMAC to offer high-quality education and impactful research that will further elevate the discipline and ensure its relevance in today’s society. Professor Mensah’s remarks at the launch event highlighted the university’s capability to deliver a program of such magnitude, fostering an environment of innovation and academic advancement.
Moreover, the new PhD program reinforces UniMAC’s mandate to cultivate the next generation of scholars and professionals in Media and Communication. Professor Mensah articulated the importance of the program beyond academic achievement, noting its broader implications on Ghana’s economic and political landscape. He asserted that communication is a crucial driver of business innovation, public engagement, and competitiveness in various sectors, including marketing and public relations. By equipping professionals with advanced skills in communication studies, the program aims to meaningfully contribute to economic growth and industry development in Ghana, underscoring the integral role that effective communication plays in fostering innovation and collaboration.
In the realm of political communication, Professor Mensah highlighted the essential role it plays in Ghana’s thriving democracy. He illustrated how effective communication can enhance transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement, ultimately ensuring that governance is participatory and responsive to the public’s needs. By instilling communication expertise in professionals, the PhD program intends to strengthen the foundations of democratic practices, allowing for a more engaged and informed citizenry. This focus on the political dimensions of communication underscores the program’s relevance and significance within broader societal contexts.
The Pro Vice Chancellor, Professor Winston Kwame Abroampa, further echoed the sentiments expressed by Professor Mensah, emphasizing the importance of Media and Communication experts enrolling in this landmark program. He described the launch as a significant historical moment for UniMAC, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to delivering on its academic mandate and promoting scholarly excellence. Professor Abroampa also revealed that the program would be offered in collaboration with international universities, enhancing the educational experience for students by exposing them to global trends and practices in media and communication. This ambition to connect with global academic landscapes reflects the institution’s dedication to providing a comprehensive and enriching educational journey for its doctoral candidates.
As the PhD in Media and Communication program commences, it stands as a testament to UniMAC’s proactive approach to addressing the evolving challenges within the fields of Media, Arts, and Communication. Through advanced training and innovative curricula, the program is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and leadership among its graduates, preparing them to navigate the complexities of a dynamic media environment. Overall, this initiative reflects a commitment not only to academic excellence but also to the development of professionals equipped to lead discussions and drive advancements within the sectors of media, communication, and beyond. The launch of this doctoral program is not merely about establishing a new academic pathway; it is an essential investment in the future of Media and Communication in Ghana and Africa as a whole.
