Peace Education Workshop Engages Students at Ridge Junior High School

Region: Ashanti Region
Date & Venue: Monday, 16th March 2026 – Ridge Junior High School (Assembly Grounds)

The Ashanti Regional Peace Council (ARPC), in partnership with the Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission (SALW), conducted a Peace Education and Sensitization Workshop for students at Ridge Junior High School. The program focused on promoting peaceful coexistence, conflict resolution skills, and awareness on the dangers of illegal possession of small arms and light weapons.

Objectives of the Workshop

The initiative aimed to:

  • Promote peaceful coexistence among students by teaching non-violent approaches to resolving conflicts.
  • Educate students on the consequences of illegal possession and use of small arms and light weapons.
  • Establish Peace Ambassadors Clubs in J.H.S. and S.H.S. across the region.
  • Deepen students’ understanding of conflict and peaceful coexistence.

Expected Outcomes

The workshop sought to:

  • Equip students with non-violent methods for addressing disputes.
  • Prevent and combat the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
  • Improve understanding of peaceful coexistence and strengthen youth participation in conflict prevention.
  • Develop a critical mass of future adult peacebuilders capable of impacting their communities positively.

Highlights from Key Addresses

Mr. Godwin Nana Amponsah – Senior Programmes Manager, ARPC
“Violence among students, such as bullying, fighting, threats, and property destruction, threatens peace and security in schools. Students must learn to resolve disagreements peacefully through patience, tolerance, dialogue, and reporting issues to school authorities rather than resorting to violence.”

Mr. Emmanuel Kenneth Oduro – Regional Director, Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission (SALW)
“The proliferation of arms and light weapons remains a major threat to peace. Illegal arms in schools endanger students and teachers, leading to injuries, arrests, or long-term criminal records. Anyone found guilty of unlawful possession or use of firearms may face severe legal consequences, including imprisonment. Students are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to prevent tragedies.”

Participating Institutions

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

Over 200 students actively participated, gaining knowledge and skills to foster a culture of peace, tolerance, and responsible behavior within their school community.