nutsford University and CCSE Graduate First Cohort of Climate Communication Professionals

Knutsford University and CCSE Graduate First Cohort of Climate Communication Professionals

Accra, Ghana – 21st December 2024 – Knutsford University, now a fully-fledged university following the conferment of a presidential charter by the President of Ghana, in collaboration with the Centre for Climate and Sustainability Empowerment (CCSE), proudly celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of students who successfully completed the Professional Development Course in Climate Communication.

The one-month intensive program, hosted at Knutsford University, was specifically designed to build the capacity of journalists, media practitioners from leading media houses and leaders of CSOs in Ghana.

The course aimed to empower participants with the knowledge, tools, and strategies required to effectively communicate climate change issues, influence public opinion, and drive meaningful action.

The Professional Development Course in Climate Communication was carefully structured to address the growing need for impactful climate communication in Ghana and beyond. It combined scientific knowledge, communication strategies, and visual storytelling techniques to help journalists translate complex climate science into accessible narratives for diverse audiences.

Participants were taken through foundational concepts in climate science, a session facilitated by Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, Vice Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Working Group I and the Head of Physics Department, University of Ghana..

The session provided insights into the causes and impacts of climate change, equipping journalists with a deeper understanding of the subject to enhance the credibility and accuracy of their reporting.

Building on this foundation, Dr. Diana Sebbie from the University of Ghana led an interactive module on practical tools and techniques for effective climate change communication.

This session emphasized the importance of framing messages for different audiences, countering misinformation, and leveraging digital platforms to amplify climate stories.

Participants were also introduced to visual communication strategies to enhance storytelling through data visualization, infographics, and multimedia presentations.

This session, facilitated by Mr. Clifford Ladzekpo, focused on creating compelling visual narratives to simplify complex climate data and increase audience engagement.

The course emphasized the critical role of journalists and CSOs in addressing the climate communication gap by translating scientific findings into relatable stories that resonate with the public and policymakers. Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Mr.Ladzekpo,  commended the participants for their dedication and enthusiasm throughout the program.

He emphasized the need for journalists to use their platforms responsibly to shape narratives that foster climate resilience and drive sustainable development.

The course emphasized the critical role of journalists in addressing the climate communication gap by translating scientific findings into relatable stories that resonate with the public and policymakers. Participants learned to highlight solutions, mobilize communities, and hold leaders accountable while promoting actionable steps toward climate mitigation and adaptation. Graduates of the program are expected to apply their skills across various media platforms, launching climate-focused programs, investigative reports, documentaries, and advocacy campaigns.

The program also established a network of climate communicators (CCN), encouraging ongoing collaboration and the exchange of ideas among participants.Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse expressed her confidence in the graduates, stating:

“This program has equipped journalists with the skills to not only report on climate change but to advocate for solutions. Their voices will play a pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s response to the climate crisis.

“The Professional Development Course in Climate Communication marks a significant milestone in strengthening Ghana’s media capacity to address climate change. By empowering journalists, the program seeks to amplify voices that inspire policy changes, community action, and global awareness.

Knutsford University and CCSE have pledged to expand the program in the coming years, offering more training opportunities and partnerships to support climate communication and advocacy in Africa and beyond.

About the Organizers Knutsford University College is now a fully-fledged university after receiving a presidential charter from the President of the Republic of  Ghana. This prestigious milestone marks a new era of academic excellence and global impact.

The university is committed to delivering transformative education through cutting-edge research, innovation, and leadership development. Its vision is to drive world-class inclusive education and nurture adaptable, innovative leaders to address global challenges.

Knutsford University’s mission is to cultivate critical thinkers and practitioners through transformative education, while promoting godliness, integrity, and accountability. With a focus on sustainability, interdisciplinary learning, and community engagement, Knutsford University is committed to preparing students to tackle real-world challenges and create positive change in Africa and beyond.

Centre for Climate and Sustainability Empowerment (CCSE)The Centre for Climate and Sustainability Empowerment (CCSE) is a leading organization dedicated to capacity building, advocacy, and education on climate change and sustainability issues.

CCSE works to empower individuals, communities, and institutions with the knowledge and tools needed to address the challenges of climate change, promote sustainable development, and drive climate action. Through training programs, workshops, and partnerships, CCSE is committed to fostering climate resilience and advancing environmental sustainability across Ghana and beyond.                                   For more information about the program and upcoming training sessions, visit www.knutsforduniversity.org or follow CCSE on all socials.