Frequency and Adequacy of Media Information on the Sustainable Development Goals: A Ghanaian Case Study

Abstract

This study examined public perception on frequency and adequacy of media information on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Ghana, using the descriptive survey design. The study population was made up of Ghanaians who were 18 years or above. Convenient sampling method was used to select 431 Ghanaians. Data was gathered through questionnaire administration. Analytical techniques for the study included frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations. The study found that social media was the most dominant source of information among Ghanaians, followed by television, with newspapers identified as the least dominant source of information. Generally, Ghanaians perceived the level of frequency of media information on SDG 1 (Ending poverty) as high. Again, the level of frequency of media information on SDG 2 (Ending hunger and achieving food security), SDG 3 (Healthy life) and SDG 5 (Gender equality) was moderate. However, the level of adequacy of media information on SDG 9 (Industry, and infrastructure), SDG 10 [Reduced inequality] and Goal 11 [Sustainable cities and communities] was very low. As a recommendation, Ghanaian media should pay increased attention to the use of the new media especially social media when covering and reporting issues related to the SDGs. Furthermore, media organizations in Ghana should consider the use of radio and television as critical sources of frequent and adequate information on the SDGs. Finally, media organizations should re-examine their daily and weekly programs to ensure that equal attention is given to all the 17 SDGs.