The second leg of the maiden Betway Sports Writers Conference came off in Accra on Friday with about 80 journalists participating.
The programme which began in Kumasi on Wednesday, saw renowned journalists and practitioners share their knowledge of ways to improve upon sports Journalism in the country.
Speakers included, Graphic Sports Editor Maurice Quansah, TV3’s Michael Oti Adjei, Ghana Football Association’s General Secretary, Prosper Harrison Addo and others including, Elleony Amande, Nathaniel Attoh, Gary Al-Smith and Godfred Akoto.
In his presentation, Mr Quansah urged sports journalists to remain professional in the performance of their duties since there were certain ethics which must be followed.
He said, sports journalists must do well to carve a niche for themselves by standing out in what they do, especially with reportage.
“You should not take the work lightly as it is important to learn all the time to improve since the industry has evolved especially with regard to technology,” he stated.
He added that journalists must set standards for themselves and work towards them while they work towards influencing the game, not only in Ghana but the world at large.
On his part, Mr Oti Adjei asked journalists to take advantage of the numerous learning avenues to develop their craft.
“Learn to readjust, respect what you do,prepare before putting things out and ensure that you remain relevant in the scene,” he stressed.
He said, journalists must look out for other interesting stories aside capturing details of football matches at stadiums as there would be other things to report on at the stadium aside the game.
“Remain focused on the match but also look out for other things around the stadium that could make good stories,” he stated.
Mr Addo also reiterated the need for journalists to take research seriously as it would go a long way to improve upon their reportage.
He cautioned journalists to be conscious of what they put out, considering the legal implications that could arise including defamation and other copyright issues.
He said one successful defamation case against a media house could bring the company down, hence the need to try and be safe to move the profession forward.
All journalists present received certificates after the event while the speakers applauded Betway for putting together the event which would go a long way to improve upon sports Journalism in Ghana.
BY MICHAEL D.ABAYATEYE
