The Information Services Department (ISD), a pivotal government communication agency, is committed to promoting public participation in national development through the dissemination of information on government policies and activities.
The Acting Director of ISD, Dr Winnifred Nafisah Mahama, said this when she paid a visit to the Embassy of Japan in Accra on Thursday.
Dr Mahama emphasised the critical role of ISD in disseminating credible and accessible information on government policies, programmes and activities.
She stated, “Our mission is to engender public participation and engagement. The ISD aspires to be a modern, efficient and trusted source for government information, becoming the preferred choice for credible and transparent communication.”
Dr Mahama highlighted the Department’s Comprehensive Communication Services, comprising information dissemination, public education campaigns, collaborative media engagement, media accreditation, data-driven research and feedback and right-to-information facilitation.
She further outlined the Department’s re-tooling project, which aims to modernise its operations.
“This includes the refurbishment and construction of ISD offices across Ghana, equipping offices with modern computers and reliable internet services, procuring digital mobile vans to expand outreach capabilities, constructing a state-of-the-art news studio at the headquarters, and investing in staff development through comprehensive training and orientation programs.”
The Ag. Director stated that ISD is seeking assistance and collaboration from international agencies, embassies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to strengthen its capabilities and broaden its reach.
“The Department is seeking partnership opportunities in the areas of knowledge sharing, staff development, public access to information support, rebranding and transformation initiatives.
“Your investment in this project will strengthen Ghana’s communication infrastructure and empower citizens to actively participate in national development,” she noted.
On her part, the First Secretary of Information and Culture, General, Protocol, and Political Affairs, Miss Teragaki Yuriya, highlighted Japan’s ongoing support for Ghana.
“The Japanese government assists the Ghanaian government by providing grant assistance, technical cooperation and development projects.”
Miss Yuriya expressed optimism about the future, stating, “I believe there will be a partnership that will mutually benefit us.”
The visit forms part of a broader engagement with corporate entities to share the Department’s transformation agenda.
Patience Anaadem, ISD