Opinions of Thursday, 26 December 2024

Columnist: Dr. (Alhaji) Abubakari Sidick Ahmed

A Clear Voice for Culture: Bnoskka’s call for CNC renaming demands immediate attention

Writer, Dr. (Alhaji) Abubakari Sidick Ahmed Writer, Dr. (Alhaji) Abubakari Sidick Ahmed

The Ghanaian creative and cultural landscape is a treasure trove, and its institutions must be equally robust and effective. One such institution, the Centre for National Culture (CNC), plays a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.

However, as advocated by Bnoskka, a respected Creative Arts Business and Intellectual Property Consultant, the CNC faces a significant branding challenge.

The current name, "National Commission on Culture (NCC)," is often confused with the "National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE)," undermining the CNC’s purpose and national scope. This confusion, compounded by the misrepresentation it creates is an impediment to the work of the CNC. We urge all stakeholders to consider Bnoskka’s call without hesitation.

The Issue: Clarity is Paramount

Bnoskka's call for renaming the CNC’s head office is not a minor detail; it's a strategic necessity. The fact that the "National Commission on Culture" is often mistaken for another national institution is not just inconvenient—it’s a barrier to the CNC’s ability to connect with the public, its stakeholders, and potential international partners. The CNC, with its offices in all 16 regions, represents Ghana's entire cultural sector and deserves a name that accurately reflects its national significance. The current name does not convey that purpose, hindering clarity in brand communication.

Bnoskka's Proposed Solution: “CNC National Headquarters”

Bnoskka’s solution is both simple and profound: rename the CNC head office to "CNC National Headquarters." This straightforward change would clearly identify the head office as the central hub of the organization, instantly resolving the existing confusion. It is a practical and readily implementable step that can be taken without delay.

Why Stakeholders Must Act Now:

• To the Creative and Cultural Industry: As those who shape and preserve Ghana’s culture, you know that proper branding is crucial. A confused or misrepresented institution cannot fully support your work. Bnoskka's call is directly aligned with the need for structures to match the energy and creativity of the nation’s cultural sector. Actively support this change.

• To Policymakers and the New Government: You have the power to remove a needless obstacle to a vital institution. This is a straightforward change that can boost the CNC’s effectiveness and visibility, without extensive bureaucracy or financial burdens. It’s a quick win that demonstrates your commitment to Ghana’s cultural sector. Bnoskka has done the intellectual work by identifying the problem, it is now your turn to act.

• To Chiefs and Traditional Leaders: As custodians of Ghana’s cultural heritage, you understand the importance of clear identity and respect for national institutions. Support this change to ensure the CNC continues to effectively protect, promote, and develop our cultural wealth.

• To Academics: This offers a perfect case study on the importance of strategic communication, branding, and public perception, which are critical elements of the study of communications.

Addressing the "Commission" Concern:

Some may argue that abandoning the word "Commission" could pose issues, especially since the National Commission on Culture is created by the constitution.

While it is true that the CNC is legally established as the National Commission on Culture, we believe this distinction should not prevent the renaming of its head office. The legal name of the organization will remain unchanged and can be used for all legal and formal documentation.

The change proposed by Bnoskka is simply about the appropriate branding of the office where the institution has its administrative head, which is currently causing serious confusion. This change of name will not alter the legal identity or the statutory mandate of the Commission. A national headquarters is simply the administrative base for the whole operation of any national institution.

To accommodate any perceived issues arising from the use of the word ‘Centre’ we can simply rename the head office to “The National Commission on Culture Head Office” or The “CNC National Headquarters”. This would avoid undermining the existing constitutionality of the institution while solving the current challenges.

A Call for Immediate Action:

Let us not delay in implementing a solution to a challenge that is so easily overcome. We urge the creative industry, policy makers, chiefs, academics, and the new government, to heed Bnoskka’s call, give it the urgent attention it deserves, and make this change without hesitation.

The CNC’s success is inextricably linked to Ghana's cultural success. It is the time to give this cultural powerhouse the clarity it deserves. Let us make “CNC National Headquarters” a reality and secure clarity in the face of chaos.

Conclusion:

Bnoskka’s advocacy underscores a critical point: a strong cultural sector requires clear, effective institutions. Let's take the practical step of renaming the CNC’s head office and move forward with a clear brand, a unified purpose, and a vibrant culture that reflects the best of Ghana. This is not just about a name change; it's about strengthening a national institution for the benefit of Ghana.