The University of Education in Winneba, Ghana. Image source: Wikimedia Commons

By Rainbow Sackey 

The fast development of news media worldwide makes it essential for journalists to learn from other regions through international programmes. My time participating in the AMAZE programme, which helps early-career African journalism educators learn about European and German media through educational experiences, gave me new knowledge and perspectives. Through interactive lectures, newsroom visits, and hands-on training sessions, I gained first-hand knowledge of how different nations run their media operations and how free they can be while helping me analyse both strengths and weaknesses in Ghana’s news industry. This exposure broadened my understanding of journalism’s role in fostering democracy and the critical need for press freedom in developing societies. 

Comparing media systems: Germany vs. Africa 

During the AMAZE programme, I found it striking how German media operates under a structured, well-funded, and independent framework, in contrast to many African nations that still struggle with government interference and financial instability (Thelma et al., 2024). Germany’s public media services, including Deutsche Welle, ARD, and ZDF, illustrate why independent journalism is fundamental to democratic governance. These institutions benefit from steady public funding and operate under strict regulations that prioritise the public good, ensuring the press remains free from commercial or political pressure (Freedom House, 2019). 

In Africa, media organisations often contend with challenges such as limited funding, government control, and restricted press freedoms (Amnesty International, 2021). While there are some independent media houses, they frequently face financial instability, making them vulnerable to political or corporate influences. The AMAZE programme made me realize the importance of securing long-term, independent funding models for media organizations in Africa to ensure their sustainability and journalistic integrity. Furthermore, discussions with German journalists and academics illuminated possible solutions, such as implementing policies that safeguard press independence and increase public trust in journalism. 

Comparing media systems: Germany vs. Ghana 

The AMAZE programme also afforded me the opportunity to compare news operations in Germany and Ghana in greater depth. Germany’s media system operates on a firm foundation of journalistic integrity, with public broadcasters like Deutsche Welle emphasising high ethical standards and quality investigative reporting. These media houses benefit from well-structured funding mechanisms and clear legal protections that support their work. 

Ghana, on the other hand, is often hailed as a leader in African press freedoms, thanks to its vibrant network of independent media organisations. However, despite this progress, Ghana’s media sector still faces issues such as financial instability, political interference, and declining press freedom rankings (Media Foundation for West Africa, 2023; Bertelsmann Stiftung, 2024). Journalists in Ghana regularly encounter threats, harassment, and legal challenges, including the use of defamation laws to stifle critical reporting. The AMAZE programme inspired me to reflect on practical ways to improve Ghanaian media organisations, particularly by advocating for better legal protections for journalists and encouraging greater investment in independent public service broadcasting. 

Lessons from the German media system 

Germany has successfully institutionalised public service media, ensuring its independence from political or commercial pressures. The free operation of ARD and ZDF demonstrates how strong public funding can protect journalism from external influences while prioritising public interest. This contrasts sharply with the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), which struggles with government interference and financial instability (Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, n.d.). A more sustainable funding model—such as Germany’s licensing fee system—could significantly enhance Ghana’s public broadcasting quality and reliability. 

Another key lesson from Germany’s media landscape is the emphasis on media literacy. German institutions proactively educate their citizens on distinguishing credible news sources from misinformation, an increasingly important skill in today’s digital age. In Ghana, where misinformation spreads rapidly through social media, integrating media literacy courses into school curricula and community education programs could empower the public to critically evaluate news and avoid falling prey to disinformation campaigns. 

Additionally, Germany’s regulatory bodies effectively monitor and protect journalists, ensuring that press freedoms are upheld. In Ghana, while the National Media Commission plays a similar role, regulatory constraints and political pressures sometimes limit its effectiveness. Strengthening these oversight organizations with greater autonomy and adequate resources would go a long way in defending media freedom and journalistic integrity. 

Challenges and opportunities for Ghanaian media 

Despite Ghana’s strong progress in media freedom, financial independence remains a major concern for news outlets. Many rely heavily on advertising revenue, making them susceptible to influence from businesses and political entities (Dzisah et al., 2024). This commercial pressure often results in sensationalist journalism that prioritises profit over accuracy and ethical reporting. Adopting alternative revenue models, such as subscription services or public funding initiatives, could provide Ghanaian media organisations with greater financial stability and editorial independence. 

Another pressing issue is the safety and protection of journalists. In recent years, Ghana’s press freedom rankings have declined, with increasing reports of intimidation and violence against journalists. Strengthening legal protections and enforcing strict consequences for attacks on journalists would create a safer environment for independent reporting. 

However, there are also promising opportunities for growth. Ghana’s expanding digital media landscape has fostered independent online journalism, with platforms like The Fourth Estate leading the way in investigative reporting. Learning from Germany’s successful implementation of ethical and transparent digital media regulations could help Ghanaian policymakers shape better guidelines for digital journalism. 

International collaborations also hold great potential. Through the AMAZE programme, Ghanaian journalists and educators can continue to engage with their European counterparts, exchanging knowledge and best practices. Establishing more formal partnerships with European media institutions could enhance professional development, foster cross-border reporting projects, and strengthen Ghana’s media landscape. 

Personal reflections: the impact of AMAZE on my pedagogy and research 

Beyond the structured learning, the AMAZE programme provided an invaluable cultural exchange. Engaging with German journalists, academics, and media professionals allowed me to critically assess my teaching practices and the broader Ghanaian media environment. The discussions on press freedom, media ethics, and disinformation were particularly relevant to my work as an educator. 

One of the most memorable experiences was visiting newsrooms and media training institutions in Germany. Observing how journalists navigate ethical dilemmas, verify sources, and engage audiences reinforced the importance of practical journalism education. I left the programme with a renewed commitment to integrating these lessons into my teaching, ensuring that future Ghanaian journalists are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. 

Infrastructure challenges and opportunities: insights from my PhD research 

One of the critical insights from the AMAZE programme was the role of adequate infrastructure in shaping quality journalism education. My PhD research, titled Media Convergence in Praxis: Curriculum and Pedagogical Issues in Journalism Education in Ghana, examines how journalism institutions in Ghana are integrating media convergence into their curricula. The research highlights several challenges, including limited infrastructure, large class sizes, lack of modern equipment, and gaps in faculty training. German institutions benefit from well-equipped classrooms, multimedia studios, and state-of-the-art technology that enhance student learning experiences. In Ghana, however, journalism schools struggle with limited resources, outdated equipment, and overcrowded classrooms. The AMAZE programe reinforced the need to bridge this gap by prioritising investments in digital recording tools, newsroom facilities, and modern teaching aids. 

However, several issues may hinder progress in this area: 

• Financial constraints: Many journalism schools in Ghana depend on government funding, which is often insufficient to meet infrastructural needs. Private sponsorships and industry partnerships could provide alternative solutions. 

• Policy and bureaucratic delays: Introducing new infrastructure requires policy approvals and institutional agreements, which can slow down implementation. 

• Lack of skilled personnel: Even with infrastructure improvements, faculty members may require additional training to maximise the use of modern equipment effectively. 

• Technological gaps: The rapid advancement of digital journalism tools means that constant updates and maintenance are necessary, which can be costly. 

Despite these challenges, the AMAZE programme has reinforced the urgent need for infrastructure improvements in Ghanaian journalism education. Establishing exchange programmes with German institutions could facilitate technology transfer and provide Ghanaian students with exposure to modern journalism tools. Additionally, adopting Germany’s funding model, where public broadcasters receive dedicated support, could be explored to sustain journalism training institutions in Ghana. 

Building bridges: Ghana-Europe media collaboration 

The AMAZE programme underscored the value of cross-regional collaboration in journalism education. Strengthening ties between Ghanaian and European media institutions can foster knowledge exchange, research partnerships, and capacity-building initiatives. Expanding programs like AMAZE to include more joint training workshops, faculty exchanges, and co-authored research on press freedom and media literacy could create long-term benefits for both regions. 

Furthermore, encouraging Ghanaian journalists and educators to participate in European journalism networks would provide them with access to international resources, mentorship opportunities, and broader professional exposure. By advocating for media policies that reflect global best practices while remaining sensitive to local contexts, Ghanaian media professionals can help shape a more resilient and independent press environment. 

Conclusion 

My experience in the AMAZE programme reaffirmed the critical role of journalism in shaping democratic societies. While Ghana and Germany have distinct media landscapes, both countries can learn from each other’s successes and challenges. Strengthening press freedom, ethical journalism, and media literacy remains essential in navigating the evolving global media landscape. 

As an educator and researcher, I am committed to incorporating these insights into my work and advocating for policies that support independent journalism in Ghana. The journey of media transformation is ongoing, and cross-border learning remains a vital tool in shaping the future of journalism education. Continuation with internationally organised programmes, such as the AMAZE mentorship programme, ensures that Ghanaian journalists will raise an independent media ecosystem within the country and strive for the utmost press standards in freedom and integrity. 

This article was originally published on: https://de.ejo-online.eu. Read the original article here: https://de.ejo-online.eu/aktuelle-beitraege/bruecken-zwischen-medienlandschaften-ueberlegungen-zum-amaze-programm-und-lehren-fuer-den-journalismus-in-ghana  

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