Research

Submit Abstract — SJMCC 2026

State of Journalism, Media and Communication Conference

The School of Journalism and Media Studies (SOJAMS) at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) is hosting the inaugural State of Journalism, Media and Communication Conference (SJMCC 2026) on 15–16 July 2026. This two-day conference provides a dynamic platform for scholars, researchers, and industry experts to present cutting-edge research, discuss emerging issues, and foster networking within the fields of journalism, media, and communication.

We cordially invite academics, researchers, media practitioners, communication educators, content creators, and policy stakeholders to contribute their work and participate in this inaugural conference.

Key Objectives

  • Provide a platform for scholars and practitioners to present research and engage in critical discussions on emerging issues in journalism, media, and communication.
  • Explore pressing topics such as the impact of AI, misinformation, media ownership, and the role of journalism in development and democracy.
  • Facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange among academics, practitioners, and policymakers.
  • Generate insights and recommendations that advance journalism and media practice in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Conference Tracks & Sub-Tracks

a) AI, Media, Journalism, and Communication in the New Age
  • Algorithmic News Production and Automation
  • Generative AI and Content Creation
  • AI, Personalisation, and Audience Engagement
  • Ethics, Regulation, and Accountability in AI Media Systems
b) The Impact of Technology on Media and Democracy
  • Digital Platforms and Electoral Politics
  • Public Sphere Transformation in the Digital Age
  • Platform Governance and Democratic Accountability
  • Civic Engagement, Activism, and Hashtag Politics
c) Fact-Checking, Misinformation, and Disinformation
  • Ecosystems of Misinformation and Disinformation
  • Fact-Checking Models and Innovations
  • Audience Reception and Media Literacy
  • Platform Responsibility and Content Moderation
d) The Role of the Media in Development
  • Media and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
  • Community Media and Grassroots Communication
  • Development Communication and Behaviour Change
  • Media, Governance, and Accountability in Development
e) Media Ownership and Business Models in the Current Age
  • Platformisation and Revenue Models
  • Ownership Structures and Media Pluralism
  • Entrepreneurial Journalism and Startups
  • Public Interest Media and Funding Models
f) The State of Media, Journalism, and Communication Education
  • Curriculum Innovation in the Digital Era
  • Pedagogy and Experiential Learning
  • Skills Gaps and Employability in Media Industries
  • Decolonising Media Education
g) Global Perspectives on Media and Communication
  • Comparative Media Systems and Models
  • Transnational Media Flows and Cultural Exchange
  • Media Policy and Regulation Across Contexts
  • Diaspora Media and Identity Construction
h) Science, Risk, Health, and Environmental Journalism
  • Health Communication and Pandemic Reporting
  • Climate Change and Environmental Reporting
  • Science Communication and Public Understanding
  • Risk Communication and Crisis Reporting
i) Investigative Journalism, Anti-Corruption Reportage, and Processes
  • Methods and Tools in Investigative Journalism
  • Media, Corruption, and Accountability Systems
  • Safety, Ethics, and Legal Challenges
  • Collaborative and Cross-Border Investigations
j) Gender and the Media
  • Representation and Framing of Gender in Media Content
  • Gender Inequality in Media Industries
  • Digital Spaces, Gender, and Online Harassment
  • Feminist Media Practices and Alternative Narratives
k) Journalism History
  • Evolution of Journalism Practices and Norms
  • Colonial and Postcolonial Media Histories
  • Technological Shifts and Media Transformation
  • Historical Case Studies in Media and Society
l) Mass Communication and Society
  • Media Effects and Audience Studies
  • Media, Culture, and Identity Formation
  • Political Communication and Public Opinion
  • Digital Media, Social Change, and Everyday Life
m) Strategic Communication
  • Public Relations
  • Advertising
  • Marketing
Abstract & Submission Guidelines ▸ Expand

Abstract Format

  • Present as a single paragraph of 175–275 words.
  • Summarise background, objectives, methods, key findings, and conclusions.
  • Include up to 6 keywords — lowercase, comma-separated (except proper/scientific names).
  • Do not use subheadings, bullet points, lists, headers, or footers within the abstract.
  • Titles should be brief yet descriptive. Avoid abbreviations in the title.
  • Write all acronyms in full at first mention, followed by the abbreviation in parentheses.
  • References should not appear in the abstract; if absolutely necessary, include in brackets.

General Instructions

  • Abstracts must reflect original research. Both informative and critical abstracts are welcome.
  • Submissions must be written in English.
  • Select 1–3 relevant tracks that best align with your abstract.
  • Submit a short biography alongside the abstract (max 70 words).
  • Use the official SJMCC Abstract Template (.doc or .docx).
  • Submissions not meeting guidelines will be returned for revision.
  • Abstracts submitted after the deadline will not be considered except where an extension is officially granted.

Typography (Template)

  • Title: Times New Roman 12pt · Title Case · Bold · Centred
  • Body: Times New Roman 11pt · Line spacing 1 · Single column

Affiliations Format

  • Use superscript Arabic numbers at end of surname for affiliations.
  • Use superscript asterisk (*) for corresponding author.
  • Include Department, Faculty, University, Country for each affiliation.
  • Example: Surname INITIALS¹*, Surname INITIALS²

Co-Author Information

  • Each registration covers one individual only.
  • Co-authors wishing to attend must register and pay separately.
  • Co-authors are eligible for a 15% discount on the non-presenter fee.
  • Certificates issued to co-authors only after registration and payment are complete.
  • Contact the organising committee in advance to access the discount.

After Submission

  • Ensure your spam filter allows sjmccsecretariat@unimac.edu.gh.
  • If no confirmation received within 48 hours, check spam/junk folder first.
  • Include your mobile number for further communication.
Paper Information
Times New Roman 12pt, Title Case, bold. Avoid abbreviations in the title.
Format: Surname INITIALS. Use superscripts for affiliations.
Each registration covers one individual. Co-authors must register separately (15% discount applies).
Include Department, Faculty/School, University, Country
Include mobile number to facilitate communication.
Abstract Details
Authors may select 1–3 relevant tracks. Primary track here; note others in keywords.
Single paragraph · 175–275 words · Times New Roman 11pt · Line spacing 1 · No subheadings or references 0 words
Maximum 6 keywords · Lowercase (except proper/scientific names) · Comma-separated
Students must present active Student ID during registration.
Must use the official SJMCC Abstract Template (.doc or .docx). Max 10MB. Remove all author-identifying information for blind review.
Biography & Contact Information
Max 70 words · Include Name, Institution, and research interests 0 words
Groups of 5+ and co-authors are eligible for a discounted registration rate.

After submitting, ensure your spam filter allows emails from Email Secretariat. If no confirmation is received within 48 hours, check your spam/junk folder before following up.