IPR Ghana Launches Edzikanfo Lecture, Honours PR Trailblazer JEAP

The Institute of Public Relations (IPR) Ghana launched the inaugural Edzikanfo Lecture at the British Council Auditorium in Accra, honoring the late Joseph Emmanuel Allotey-Pappoe, widely known as JEAP. The lecture series aims to recognize pioneering figures in public relations and draw insights from their contributions to the profession and society.

Esther A. N. Cobbah, President of IPR Ghana, explained that "Edzikanfo" translates to "those who took the lead; those who paved the way for us," emphasizing the lecture's purpose to celebrate both living and deceased professionals who have left a significant impact on public relations. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, the Immediate Past President of APRA, praised JEAP as an institution builder who revitalized the Federation of African Public Relations Associations and promoted collaboration among PR professionals across Africa.

Dr. Paulina Kuranchie, JEAP's mentor, emphasized his dedication to mentorship and urged the industry to foster opportunities for young professionals to develop their skills and uphold ethical standards. Rev. Kwaku Osei Bimpong, a former colleague of JEAP, recalled his contributions to establishing IPR Ghana's foundational elements, including its constitution and code of ethics.

Kwesi Afreh Biney, Director-General of SSNIT, pledged the organization's ongoing support for the lecture series. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications, officially launched the event, underlining the importance of ethics, professionalism, and public trust in communication. He also announced a partnership between his office and IPR Ghana to enhance the capacity of young communicators.

JEAP was posthumously awarded the APRA's Visionary Leader Award at the organization's 50th Anniversary Conference in Mombasa in June 2025. The Allotey-Pappoe family thanked IPR Ghana and APRA for preserving JEAP's legacy. The Edzikanfo Lecture will honor a different PR trailblazer annually.