The triennial Congress of the Union Catholique Africaine de la Presse (UCAP), which will focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the preservation of human values, is expected to draw 150 delegates from 30 nations between August 10 and August 17, 2025
. “Balancing Technological Progress and the Preservation of Human Values in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” will be the theme of the Congress, which is scheduled to take place at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).
Non-governmental organizations, government representatives, journalists, researchers, ecclesiastical communicators, technology leaders, and Vatican envoys will all be present. UCAP is a pan-African, independent, Catholic media organization that encourages ethical discourse, freedom of expression, professionalism, solidarity, and free speech in the media community.
The Congress aims to encourage Catholic communicators in Africa and other regions to network, talk, and build their skills.
Ghana’s selection as host country reflects the relevance of its dynamic socio-cultural environment and growing reputation as a centre of digital innovation. Organisers say Accra, with its blend of colonial landmarks, entrepreneurial spirit, arts and culture, aptly mirrors the Congress theme.
The week-long gathering will feature plenary sessions, panel discussions, workshops and strategic meetings designed to interrogate the ethical dimensions of emerging technologies. Discussions will cover the corporate responsibilities that accompany AI deployment and examine how startups can embrace environmentally friendly practices while integrating AI systems.
Other areas of focus will include the reprogramming and distortion of social reality through digital platforms, and the rising concerns around digital wellbeing and how media users and practitioners can adopt more mindful and balanced digital lifestyles. These conversations are expected to generate practical responses to the challenges posed by pervasive digital engagement.
The Congress will also deliberate on issues of ecological education and sustainable resource stewardship, alongside reflections on how Catholic and African media can support the spirit of synodality — the Church’s call to walk together in unity, dialogue and participation.
Practical outcomes will result from the Congress, such as the training of 150 media professionals on the ethical and human-centered use of AI.
A media agenda on the social implications of AI and strategic action plans for governments, corporate institutions, and civil society are expected from the organizers. Additionally, UCAP national branches will develop and implement media literacy and ecological education frameworks. Media reports from member organizations and regional refresher training sessions will be used for post-event monitoring.
Delegates will be encouraged to explore Ghana’s cultural heritage during their stay. Kakum National Park, Cape Coast and Elmina Castles, the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Accra’s Arts Centre, and beach resorts like Labadi are among the optional excursions. Local festivals such as Homowo and Aboakyer are also open to guests.
The Organising Committee is co-chaired by Mrs Victoria Lugey and Sir Ben Assorow. Other members include UCAP President Mr Charles Ayetan; President of the Catholic Association of Media Practitioners, Ghana (CAMPG), Mr Stephen Asante; Prof Ben Nnamdi Emenyeonu; Dr Anthony Bonnah-Koomson; Mr Peter Martey Agbeko; Mr Christian Kpesese; Mr Stephen Boakye; Father Rex Vegbey; and Fr Dieu Donne Davor.
Organisers describe the Congress as more than a gathering of professionals — a continental movement calling for ethical media practices and a commitment to using technology in ways that promote human dignity, justice, unity and environmental stewardship.
Source: myghanadaily
