The UK will train 30 Ghanaian journalists under the 4th edition of its MEET programme to build skills and networks for reporting on science, technology and innovation, UK Deputy High Commissioner to Ghana Chris Halliday has announced.
Mr. Halliday announced the launch of the 30th GJA Media Awards at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City on October 7, 2026.
The Deputy High Commissioner, who assumed duty on August 18, 2026, after diplomatic postings in Ottawa, Kabul, Nairobi, Amman and London, previously addressed journalists at the GJA @ 77 Anniversary Symposium at the British Council on August 19.
He said it was a genuine pleasure to help launch the 30th edition on behalf of the British High Commissioner and congratulated the GJA on the milestone.
In a light-hearted opening, he told journalists: “As a diplomat, there are few things more frightening than speaking to a room full of journalists. Fortunately, my team reliably informs me that PHD doesn’t apply to obronis. 30 years ago I was 12 years old. And when my parents asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I said journalist. Clearly I failed.”
He drew parallels between diplomacy and journalism: “We both go where the public can’t, we work out what’s true, and we report back. The difference is: you’re paid to say what you think; I’m paid to keep my thoughts to myself.”
Mr. Halliday praised Ghana’s vibrant media presence for its commitment to getting facts right and helping citizens distinguish truth from noise.
“Thirty years of recognising and celebrating excellence in journalism is a remarkable achievement. It speaks not only to the longevity of these awards, but to the important role journalism continues to play in Ghana’s democracy, development and public life,” he said.
He pledged the UK’s unwavering support for media freedom, noting the UK’s role as a founding member of the Global Media Freedom Coalition.
Citing last year’s top winner, Godwin Asediba, who, after winning the GJA award, won the BBC Komla Dumor Award and joined the BBC, Mr. Halliday said it was proof of Ghana’s extraordinary talent.
The launch, with Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah, as Special Guest of Honour, announced that the awards night will be held on November 7, 2026, with President John Mahama, a GJA member, as Special Guest of Honour.
By Robert Dela Mawuenyegah
