As part of this year’s World Public Relations Day celebration, the Institute of Public Relations (IPR), Ghana, is rolling out a bold, nationwide agenda aimed at repositioning public relations as a central pillar of national development, transparency, and stakeholder trust.
The celebration, which falls on July 16 each year, honors Ivy Lee, the pioneer of modern PR, and reflects on the profession’s critical role in shaping societies. Under the theme “Building Bridges and Navigating Polarisation”, IPR Ghana is leveraging the occasion to highlight how strategic communication can be a force for unity and institutional credibility in a polarized world.
Led by IPR President Ms. Esther A. N. Cobbah, this year’s commemoration goes beyond symbolic events, focusing instead on tangible national impact. A range of activities has been announced to promote dialogue on truth-telling, governance, and development communication. These include a high-profile Executive Breakfast Meeting with CEOs and ministers, a webinar on stakeholder relations, and thought leadership forums across sectors.
Recognizing the importance of youth, IPR Ghana will engage communication and journalism students nationwide through tailored outreach programs and media campaigns aimed at raising awareness about PR’s real-world relevance. “These initiatives reflect IPR Ghana’s commitment to elevating the profession and advancing its strategic relevance to nation-building,” said Mr. Peter Martey Agbeko, Chair of the International Relations Committee.
In a move to expand its national footprint, the Institute will inaugurate its Northern and Middle Belt Chapters, while also offering pro bono PR support to NGOs and underserved institutions—a step demonstrating the social responsibility of the profession.
IPR is also launching a national survey on the aspirations and needs of young professionals in the field, part of a broader digital campaign to reposition PR as a dynamic, future-facing career.
Strategic partnerships have been secured with the Ghana Health Service and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority, with whom IPR will host a first-of-its-kind conference for regional and national Public Relations Officers, aimed at strengthening health communications and public safety advocacy.
Founded in 1972, IPR Ghana continues to play a pivotal role in standardizing PR practice and building institutional credibility across sectors. This year’s observance marks a renewed push by the Institute to use PR not just as a professional practice—but as a development imperative for Ghana’s progress.
