A Ghanaian alumnus and journalist is asking for brand new funding in leisure training (EE) programming after efficiently defending his documentary at Ohio College.
Emmanuel Mensah, who lately graduated with a grasp’s diploma in communication and growth research, used each his tutorial coaching {and professional} background in journalism to supply documentaries equivalent to: by the firesidea extensively recognized Ghanaian program recognized for utilizing storytelling to advertise ethical values and social consciousness.
Mensah constructed a profession in journalism, working throughout roles equivalent to reporting, enhancing and manufacturing, earlier than going overseas for graduate research.
That have, he says, formed his understanding of media as a instrument for affect and social change, a perspective that now underpins his tutorial and artistic work.
His documentaries study its cultural and academic significance. by the firesideparticularly its affect on Ghanaian audiences and college students within the diaspora.
This system highlights how tales, music, and dialogue are blended to deal with social points whereas reinforcing cultural values equivalent to respect, self-discipline, and neighborhood accountability.
In his speech following his profitable protection, Mr. Mensah emphasised the continued significance of leisure training in addressing modern social challenges.
“As a journalist, I’ve seen firsthand how the media shapes perceptions and conduct. by the firesideSo let’s check out how storytelling could be enjoyable and academic on the similar time. That mannequin remains to be very legitimate at present,” he stated.
Mensah argues that whereas conventional codecs might now not totally seize the eye of youthful audiences, digital expertise affords new alternatives for a revival. He proposes reimagined, interactive variations of such applications that permit youngsters to interact straight with the content material whereas sustaining the authenticity and cultural depth that made the unique applications influential.
He additionally referred to as for elevated institutional and company help for EE programming in Ghana, noting that sponsorship and strategic funding are important to sustaining such efforts.
“We have to rethink how we fund and produce academic content material. With the suitable help, these applications could be impactful and far-reaching,” he added.
Mensah emerged as the perfect pupil in Communication and Improvement Research for the 2025/2026 tutorial 12 months. He served as president of the Communication and Improvement Pupil Affiliation, vp of the Worldwide Union of College students, and obtained a number of different awards, together with the Excellent Instructing Assistant Award.
Mr. Mensah will proceed his tutorial journey at Ohio College, the place he’ll pursue a doctorate in media research beginning within the fall of 2026. His future analysis will concentrate on media for social change.
