Accra: Digital storytelling is revolutionizing journalism by making complex information more accessible and relatable, according to Dr. Martin Thompson Ntem, Director of the Institute for Digital Marketing and Communication (IDMC) - Ghana. Dr. Ntem emphasized that digital platforms and tools are significantly enhancing the field, offering professionals new ways to engage audiences. According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Ntem highlighted the role of digital storytelling during an interview, noting that the widespread use of smartphones and social media has sometimes impeded people's focus on reading. However, he pointed out that digital formats like infographics can aid in improving reading comprehension and memory retention. He described digital storytelling as a form of media production that effectively communicates intricate information in an accessible manner. Dr. Ntem further explained that digital storytelling has the potential to influence and shape readers' perspectives, particularly in areas such as he alth communication, youth entrepreneurship, gender, and climate change issues. He argued that vivid articles employing digital storytelling techniques could compel readers to engage with the content meaningfully. In a related development, Dr. Ntem encouraged journalists participating in the Post COVID-19 Skills Development and Productivity Enhancement Project (PSDPEP) training program to incorporate infographics in their reports to better inform and engage their audience. The Ghana News Agency has been chosen as the beneficiary organization for the PSDPEP training program, which is supported by the IDMC - Ghana. ZCZC

Education Tops Concerns for Ghanaian Voters, Report Reveals

Accra: A research conducted by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has identified education, employment, health, roads and infrastructure, and the economy as the primary concerns for Ghanaian voters. The findings were presented by Dr. Henrietta Asante-Sarpong, Director of Research, Monitoring, and Evaluation at the NCCE, during an event in Accra. According to Ghana News Agency, the report titled 'Matters of Concern to the Ghanaian Voter' revealed that 18.3 percent of respondents prioritized education, with employment following at 15.7 percent, health at 12.5 percent, roads and infrastructure at 10.0 percent, and the economy at 7.2 percent. The survey involved 9,324 participants aged 18 and above, sampled from the 16 regions and 276 constituencies of Ghana, comprising 52.2 percent male and 47.8 percent female respondents. The study highlighted that 38.7 percent of participants urged the next government to address challenges associated with the free Senior High School initiative. Furthermore, 3 0.3 percent called for expanding educational infrastructure, while 10 percent requested increased funding to support teaching and learning. In terms of employment, 57.5 percent emphasized the need for job creation and factory construction, and 31.8 percent supported additional youth employment programs. In the health sector, 47.3 percent called for expanded health infrastructure, while 16.7 percent sought improvements to the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Regarding roads and infrastructure, 57.9 percent of respondents requested the construction of more quality roads, and 29 percent demanded rehabilitation of existing roads. Additionally, 40.1 percent expressed concerns over the high cost of living and low standards of living, with 21 percent advocating for action on the high exchange rate. The study also addressed electoral issues, finding that 64.3 percent of respondents believed vote buying influenced election outcomes, prompting recommendations for the enforcement of electoral laws. It also su ggested initiatives to enhance the political representation of marginalized groups, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities. Ms. Kathleen Addy, Chairperson of the NCCE, emphasized the research's reflection of voters' views, which could guide political parties in addressing constituents' needs. Professor Justice Bawole praised the research and encouraged its accessibility for academic discussions. Dr. Eric Oduro Osae suggested developing a blueprint based on the findings for guiding government development efforts. Dr. John Osae-Kwapong and Dr. Aurelia Ayisi highlighted the importance of issue-based political discussions and cautioned against misinformation as elections approach. ZCZC

Winneba Secondary School to Mark 75th Anniversary with Community Events

Winneba: Students and management staff of Winneba Secondary School (WINNISEC) have initiated a series of events to celebrate the institution's 75th anniversary. A six-hour health walk through the main streets of Winneba kicked off the festivities, aimed at engaging the community and encouraging stakeholder participation in the Diamond Jubilee celebration. According to Ghana News Agency, the anniversary, themed "Enhancing Quality Education, through Science, Technology and Innovation: The role of stakeholders," will culminate in a grand durbar on Saturday, October 26, at Aboakyer Square on the school campus. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President of Ghana and the presidential candidate from the New Patriotic Party, is scheduled to attend as the Guest of Honour. The event will also coincide with the school's 2024 Speech and Prize-Giving Day. Mr. Daniel Nunoo, Assistant Headmaster for Administration, represented the management and the planning committee during a visit to Neenyi Ghartey VII, the Effutu Paramount C hief. The visit included an official invitation to the celebration and a procession to Neenyi Ghartey's palace. In response, Neenyi Ghartey expressed his gratitude and confirmed the participation of the Effutu Traditional Council, while also presenting an undisclosed donation to the school's management. Mr. Nunoo also outlined additional events planned for the anniversary, which include a memorial service, a clean-up exercise, a parliamentary debate, drama performances, fun games, an awards night, soccer matches, a WOSA homecoming, and a church service scheduled for Sunday, October 27 at the school.