Director of Eminent Awards Pushes for Award Scheme Regulation

By: Nartey Solomon Tetteh

The Director of the Eminent Awards, Prince Asiedu Chilky, has called for the establishment of a regulatory body to oversee award schemes in Ghana, highlighting that such a move would significantly enhance credibility and restore public trust in the industry.

There are several award schemes in Ghana, but many are not respected. This is largely due to the absence of a regulatory body to monitor their operations. Without oversight, individuals with questionable intentions have taken advantage of the system to exploit people who are desperate for recognition. Some organizations offer awards to individuals or businesses on the condition that they pay for a plaque, trophy, or feature in a publication.

Speaking on the Business Breakfast show on  Zed FM, Mr. Asiedu Chilky expressed concern over the growing public mistrust surrounding many award schemes in the country. He cited increasing allegations of extortion and lack of transparency, with some organizers allegedly using these platforms as money-making ventures under the guise of recognition.

According to Mr. Asiedu, the public’s confidence in award schemes has steadily declined due to inconsistencies, lack of accountability, and the commercialization of what should be a merit-based process.

He proposed that  a regulatory body should be established under the Creative Arts Industry to provide oversight, enforce standards, and safeguard both nominees and the public from scams.

“In as much as some people exploit award schemes for financial gain, there are also genuine organizers who aim to celebrate excellence and promote local brands. This is exactly why a regulatory body is needed to distinguish the credible schemes from the fraudulent ones”, he noted.

Mr. Asiedu also advised individuals to exercise caution when applying for award nominations.

“Don’t just file for an award without doing your homework. If you’re uncertain about an award scheme, ask the necessary questions to clear your doubts,” he stressed. He also urged award organizers to uphold integrity and transparency in their operations, indicating that working with honesty and fairness is the only way to earn the public’s trust and add value to their award.