The Accra Technical University (ATU) has partnered with the Information Services Department (ISD) to provide practical knowledge to their Public Relations students. This collaboration is part of an initiative by the Liberation Studies and Communication Technology (LSCT) Department at ATU to expose students to the daily operations of Public Relations practitioners in various ministries.
The collaboration was led by Dr. Collings Owusu Kwaning, the Head of the LSCT Department, who visited the ISD to express gratitude and to facilitate the students’ learning experience.
“Working for government calls for caution because there is a thin line between government communication and propaganda. Our goal is to get the citizens informed with the right information. PR has evolved with time, hence the need for them to always be on the mission of learning new things.”
Mrs Ethel Codjoe- Amissah, Head of the Public Relations Coordinating Division of the ISD
During the visit, the students were assigned to Public Relations officers to gain hands-on experience. They learned about the ethics and conduct of Public Relations officers, the importance of making informed decisions to overcome challenges, and the necessity of understanding the vision, mission, and objectives of the organizations they serve as Public Relations officers.
Dr. Owusu Kwaning expressed optimism about the future of the collaboration, especially with Dr. Winifred Nafisa Mahama as the Director of the ISD. Mrs. Ethel Codjoe-Amissah, the Head of the Public Relations Coordinating Division (PRCD) of the ISD, played a crucial role in facilitating the collaboration and enlightening the students about the importance of staying updated with the latest developments in PR.
The collaboration aimed to bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that the students are equipped with the necessary skills for their future careers in Public Relations. This initiative reflects ATU’s commitment to deepening relations with the industry and providing students with practical knowledge that is directly applicable to their field of study.
The collaboration between the Accra Technical University (ATU) and the Information Services Department (ISD) significantly impacted the students’ understanding and appreciation of Public Relations.
The practical experience provided by the collaboration has deepened the students’ understanding of Public Relations. They have gained insights into the ethics, challenges, and strategies of PR practitioners, which are crucial for their future careers. This hands-on experience has not only enhanced their theoretical knowledge but also equipped them with practical skills that are directly applicable to the field.
The collaboration offered students the opportunity to network with professionals in the Public Relations field. This networking can lead to future job opportunities, internships, and mentorships, which are crucial for career advancement in Public Relations.
Through the collaboration, studen gained valuable industry insights. This includes understanding the latest trends, challenges, and strategies in Public Relations, which can help them stay ahead in the competitive job market.
ATU’s launch of a Career and Skills Development Centre is a testament to its commitment to student empowerment and career development. This center is designed to provide students with resources, training, and support to enhance their career prospects. The collaboration with ISD aligns with this initiative, offering students a structured pathway to develop their skills and prepare for their careers in Public Relations.
The students expressed happiness and motivation due to the project, which has been described as “real” and “indulgent.” This indicates that the collaboration has not only provided them with practical knowledge but also motivated them to engage more deeply with their studies. The support and motivation among the students have been mutual, with explicit help and implicit mutual inspiration playing significant roles in their learning journey.
The collaboration between ATU and ISD has significantly impacted the students’ career prospects in Public Relations by enhancing their practical skills, providing networking opportunities, offering industry insights, and aligning with ATU’s broader efforts to support student career development through initiatives like the Career and Skills Development Centre.Top of Form
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