Organised on the instructions of the Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence, His Excellency Beti Assomo Joseph, the visit provided a platform for dialogue between defence communication professionals and aspiring journalists, exploring the delicate balance between the public’s right to information and the need to safeguard operational security.
The delegation was led by the Director of ASTI, Professor François Marc Modzom, the Coordinator of the Master’s programme, Blaise Testelin Nana. Also present were a female lecturer, the Head of the Communication and Production Cells of the Communication Division, as well as Deputy Research Officers of the Communication Division.
Welcoming the delegation, the Head of the Communication Division, Navy Captain Atonfack Guemo Cyrille Serge, in an expose, underscored the importance of professional ethics, accuracy and credibility in an era where information spreads within seconds and unverified claims can quickly shape public opinion.
Drawing on Cameroon’s experience, discussions examined lessons from past communication crises and the importance of timely, coordinated and fact-based communication in addressing misinformation without compromising sensitive military operations.
The students also explored a fundamental question: should every allegation or rumour receive an official response? The Head of the Communication Division, explained that effective communication requires discernment. While some situations call for prompt clarification, others demand restraint to avoid amplifying speculation or drawing the institution into matters beyond its responsibilities.
Held under the Chatham House Rule, the encounter offered the students, many of whom are undertaking professional internships, valuable insights into the realities of institutional communication and the responsibilities that come with shaping public narratives.
The visit reaffirmed the importance of dialogue between defence institutions and academic establishments in preparing a new generation of communicators committed to truth, integrity and responsible journalism. Beyond the exchange, one message stood out: public trust is built not only on what institutions say, but also on the accuracy, responsibility and judgement behind every word.
