The Parliamentary Press Corps (PPC) has lauded the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, and the Clerk to Parliament for swiftly approving a two-day capacity-building workshop aimed at enhancing the professional competencies of journalists covering proceedings in the House.
Organized by the Media Relations Directorate of Parliament, the workshop brought together parliamentary correspondents for expert-led sessions, hands-on training, and peer learning designed to strengthen their understanding of parliamentary democracy and improve the quality of their reportage.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on Sunday, the Dean of the Parliamentary Press Corps, Mr. Simon Agianab, expressed deep appreciation to Parliament’s leadership for their timely intervention and continued support for the work of the media within the legislative environment.
“On behalf of the Parliamentary Press Corps, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Speaker and the Clerk of Parliament for approving this capacity-building workshop in record time,” Mr. Agianab said. “Your swift action demonstrates Parliament’s recognition of the critical role we play in promoting transparency and accountability.”
He also commended the Media Relations Directorate for facilitating what he described as a “game-changing” initiative that will empower journalists to more effectively translate complex legislative procedures into accessible stories for the public.
By enhancing the media’s understanding of parliamentary systems and governance, the Dean noted, the workshop will equip reporters to better inform citizens about the inner workings of Parliament and its role in national development.
Mr. Agianab took the opportunity to renew an appeal made during the Press Corps’ swearing-in ceremony, urging the Clerk to reconsider a longstanding request for monthly allowances for accredited members of the Corps to support their work in Parliament.
Encouraging his colleagues to take full advantage of the learning opportunity, he said, “Let us seize this opportunity to learn, grow, and network. Let us commit together to using our newfound knowledge and skills to promote transparency, accountability, and public trust in our parliamentary democracy.”
The capacity-building workshop is expected to enhance media coverage of parliamentary proceedings and solidify the role of the press as a critical link between the legislature and the citizenry.