The University of Media, Arts, and Communication (UniMAC-IJ) on Friday, March 21, 2025, held the 2nd Session of its 3rd Congregation, celebrating the graduation of 205 students, made up of 116 females and 89 males. The Programmes Manager of AGTV, Mr. Atto Kwamena Richardson, was among the graduates. He earned a Master's Degree in Strategic Public Relations Management.

The ceremony, held at the university’s Institute of Journalism campus in Accra, recognised the academic achievements of graduates who had successfully completed various postgraduate programs.

Future Leaders

Addressing the graduates, the Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, emphasised that the occasion was not just a celebration of academic success but also a pivotal moment for graduates to position themselves as leaders and changemakers.

“In an era where information and communication shape global narratives, your role as graduates of this esteemed institution is pivotal. The knowledge and skills you have acquired will contribute significantly to national development and the transformation of the creative and media landscapes in Ghana and beyond,” he stated.

Prof. Abdulai further encouraged graduates to embrace the opportunities ahead with confidence and purpose, stressing that education is a tool for impact whether through storytelling, advocacy, policy development, or technological advancements in media and communication.

“Uphold the values of integrity, professionalism, and continuous learning. Be bold in your aspirations and contribute meaningfully to the development of Ghana and the global community,” he advised.

Global priorities

The Vice-Chancellor of UniMAC-IJ, Prof. Eric Opoku Mensah, highlighted the university’s role in aligning education with Ghana’s national priorities, including job creation, digital transformation, and inclusive education. 

He noted that UniMAC’s focus on media, arts, and communication uniquely positioned the institution to contribute significantly to these areas.

“By equipping our graduates with the skills necessary for the 21st-century economy, we are ensuring that Ghanaian youth have access to sustainable and rewarding opportunities. Our alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) reinforces our commitment to quality education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), industry innovation (SDG 9), and reduced inequalities (SDG 10). Through research, policy advocacy, and academic excellence, we remain steadfast in shaping a future where education is the bridge to prosperity,” he stated.

Prof. Mensah also reminded graduates that while the world is full of both opportunities and challenges, their greatest assets would be resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning.

“You are ambassadors of excellence, creativity, and innovation. As you venture into the next phase of your journey, hold on to the values of integrity, perseverance, and leadership. Continue to dream, continue to strive, and most importantly, continue to make an impact,” he urged.

AGTV's Programmes Manager

The Programmes Manager of AGTV, Mr. Atto Kwamena Richardson, shared some words of encouragement with his fellow graduates. Reflecting on his academic journey, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to enhance his skills and knowledge in media and communication.

“To my colleagues, this graduation is not just the end of an academic journey, but the beginning of greater responsibilities in shaping narratives and influencing society positively,” he said.

He encouraged them to remain dedicated to their professions, uphold ethical journalism, and continue striving for excellence in the media industry.

“We have been equipped with the necessary tools to make an impact in the media landscape. Let’s use our voices and platforms to inform, educate, and inspire. The future is bright, and it is up to us to seize the opportunities ahead,” he added.

Call to Learning

The Overall Best Master of Philosophy graduating student, Asante Glover Samuel, encouraged his fellow graduates to embrace lifelong learning as they navigate their careers.

Quoting motivational speakers Zig Ziglar and Mary Catherine Bateson, he reminded them that success is a journey and that continuous learning will be key to their future impact.

“Our education has prepared us, and I urge us all to rise to the occasion—learning, unlearning, and relearning to make a difference because we are products of the unique UniMAC-IJ,” he said.

Background

UniMAC-IJ was established under Act 2020 (1059), which merged three renowned institutions: the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ), the National Film and Television Institute (NAFTI), and the Ghana Institute of Languages (GIL). This merger was a long-anticipated move to create a full-fledged university dedicated to media, arts, and communication education in Ghana.

Since its establishment, UniMAC has been laying strong foundations to enhance higher education in these fields, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to shape the media and communication landscape in Ghana and beyond.

The graduation ceremony marked another significant milestone in UniMAC’s journey, reaffirming its commitment to academic excellence and the empowerment of the next generation of media and communication professionals.