Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ghanaian Times
Published on 2024-03-21 15:02:14
The President of the Ghana National Association of ADR Practitioners (GNAAP), Mr Daniel Owusu-Koranteng, delivered a powerful message to the graduands of the Professional Executive Master in Alternative Dispute Resolution (PEMADR) course, emphasizing the importance of upholding ethics in their profession as they transition into the workforce.
The graduation ceremony, organized by the Institute of Paralegal Training and Leadership Studies (IPLS) in Amasaman, Ga West municipality, served as a platform for Mr Owusu-Koranteng to address the critical role played by Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Practitioners in the economic development of the country. He highlighted the detrimental impact of not adhering to ethical standards, particularly in sectors such as mining, where poor leadership and weak regulatory frameworks have led to economic challenges despite Ghana’s abundant natural resources.
In his address, Mr Owusu-Koranteng drew attention to the provisions of the Minerals and Mining Act of 2006, pointing out how unethical practices have allowed foreign interests to exploit Ghana’s mineral wealth at the expense of its citizens. He stressed the need for a moral reformation based on dignity, honesty, and a high level of reputation to protect and preserve the country’s natural resources for current and future generations.
The President of GNAAP urged the graduands to view their role as ADR practitioners as a form of missionary work, similar to the efforts of religious leaders in promoting peace and harmony. He emphasized the importance of values such as neutrality, confidentiality, and honesty in the practice of ADR, emphasizing that failure to uphold these ethics could pose a threat to society as a whole.
Mr Owusu-Koranteng encouraged the graduands to strive for an unblemished reputation and dignity in their professional practice, reminding them that the trust placed in ADR professionals grants them access to highly sensitive and confidential information regarding disputes. He warned that a tarnished reputation could jeopardize the effectiveness of their work and undermine the trust placed in them by their clients.
In conclusion, Mr Owusu-Koranteng painted a vivid picture of the critical role that ADR Practitioners play in society, likening their work to that of religious leaders who seek to promote peace and reconciliation. He urged the graduands to approach their work with a sense of mission and purpose, recognizing the potential impact they can have on resolving disputes and fostering harmony within their communities.
The message delivered by Mr Daniel Owusu-Koranteng serves as a timely reminder of the importance of upholding ethics and values in the practice of Alternative Dispute Resolution. As the graduands embark on their professional journeys, they are encouraged to carry forward these teachings and uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in their work. The future of Ghana’s economic and social development rests in the hands of ethical and principled ADR Practitioners who are committed to upholding the dignity and rights of all individuals involved in disputes.
Read the original article on Ghanaian Times
