Where did we lose it? The falling standards of our airwaves and silence of regulators

The golden era of Ghanaian broadcasting was a time when the media was synonymous with Ghana Television (GBC) and Radio 1, Radio 2, and later Radio GAR. The stations were a monopoly, but the nation took pride in them. The era brought well-trained programme managers, television directors, and producers who served the country with the best programmes.

Discussants on talk shows were professionals and experts in their fields, and religious programmes were handled by respected clergy. Social and entertainment shows were delivered by practitioners who were knowledgeable about the creative space. Educational programmes were masterminded and controlled by individuals who knew their roles well.

The era was marked by true professionals who exhibited unmatched diction, composure, research, and respect for the audience. People like Mike Eghan, George Crabbe, Charlie Sam, James Armantey, Joe Reindorf, and Kofi Ampedu Boateng were household names. Newsreaders like John Hammond, Richard Kotey, and Efua Bentsi-Enchill were legendary.

However, the current landscape of media is a stark contrast. The quality of programmes informing, educating, and entertaining has significantly declined. While a few stations still deliver well, they could do better. The screens are now dominated by unprofessional presenters and pundits who lack proper research on the topics they discuss.

Many appear on television and call themselves counsellors, suggesting all kinds of immorality that leads to unstable relationships at home, work, and churches. The National Media Commission (NMC) and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) have a crucial mandate to promote and ensure freedom, independence of the media, insulate state-owned media from governmental control, and educate the public on civic matters.

Yet, my fear is for the future of those who consume these programmes. The language, tone, and standards used on most stations today are appalling, and they are not serving the core purpose of a media house. The problem lies with the lack of professionalism, the rush for ratings, political favor, and cheap popularity over professionalism. It is time for strict regulation, proper training, and better recruitment practices.