Ashanti Regional Peace Council Peace Education Workshop Engages J.H.S. & S.H.S. Students in Ashanti Region

Region: Ashanti Region
Date & Venue: Wednesday, 10th March 2026 – Anglican Senior High School (Assembly Hall)

The Ashanti Regional Peace Council (ARPC), in collaboration with the Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission (SALW) and Anglican Senior High School (KASS), successfully conducted a Peace Education and Sensitization Workshop for students in junior and senior high schools. The program focused on equipping students with knowledge on peaceful conflict resolution, the dangers of violence, and the illegal possession of firearms.

Objectives of the Workshop

The initiative aimed to:

  • Educate students on the Vigilantism and Related Offenses Act, 2019 (Act 999) and the consequences of student violence.
  • Raise awareness on the risks and consequences of illegal possession and misuse of small arms and light weapons.
  • Establish Peace Ambassadors Clubs within J.H.S. and S.H.S. to promote peer-led peace initiatives.
  • Promote peaceful coexistence by teaching non-violent approaches to resolving differences.

Expected Outcomes

The project aimed to:

  • Equip students with information on the legal framework surrounding vigilantism and violence.
  • Teach non-violent methods for resolving conflicts.
  • Prevent the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in schools and communities.
  • Improve understanding of peaceful coexistence among students.
  • Develop a critical mass of future adult peacebuilders capable of positively impacting their communities.

Highlights from Key Addresses

Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Badu Amoah – Regional Executive Secretary, ARPC
“Peace begins with your attitude, words, and actions. Promote peace by respecting others, avoiding bullying, helping classmates resolve conflicts peacefully, and refusing to join violent groups. The Vigilantism and Related Offenses Act, 2019 (Act 999) criminalizes the formation and activities of vigilante groups, with penalties of 10 to 15 years imprisonment for offenders.”

Mr. Emmanuel Kenneth Oduro – Regional Director, Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission
“Illegal possession and misuse of small arms and light weapons is a major threat to peace and security. Weapons in the wrong hands can lead to violence, crime, and loss of lives. Anyone found guilty of unlawful possession may face arrest, prosecution, and imprisonment. Understanding these consequences is crucial for safeguarding our schools and communities.”

Participating Institutions

  • Ashanti Regional Peace Council (ARPC)
  • Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission (SALW)
  • Anglican Senior High School (Students, Administration, and Teachers)

Over 100 students actively participated, gaining knowledge and skills to foster peace in their schools and communities, and becoming empowered to act as young peace ambassadors.