Ashanti Regional Peace Council Sensitizes Teachers on Peaceful Coexistence, Vigilantism, and Small Arms Prevention
The Ashanti Regional Peace Council (ARPC), in collaboration with the Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission (SALW), organized a Peace Education and Sensitization Programme for teachers and non-teaching staff of Fomena T.I. Ahmadiyya Senior High School on Tuesday, 3rd June 2026, at the school’s Staff Conference Room.
The programme formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen peace education within educational institutions, enhance awareness of the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999), and address the growing concerns surrounding student violence and the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
Promoting Safe and Peaceful School Environments
The programme sought to educate teachers and non-teaching staff on the provisions of the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999), the consequences of student violence, and the dangers associated with the illegal possession and use of small arms and light weapons.
It also aimed to promote peaceful coexistence within schools by equipping educators with knowledge and practical approaches for fostering non-violent conflict resolution among students. Additionally, the initiative supports the establishment of Peace Ambassadors Clubs in Senior High Schools across the region as part of efforts to nurture a culture of peace among young people.
Addressing Student Violence and Vigilantism
Speaking at the programme, Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Badu Amoah, Regional Executive Secretary of the Ashanti Regional Peace Council, expressed concern over the increasing incidents of violence among students in some Senior High Schools.
He noted that schools are intended to be safe environments for learning, character development, and personal growth. However, acts such as bullying, fighting, intimidation, and the use of weapons continue to threaten the safety and security of students and staff.
Rev. Dr. Amoah explained that although vigilantism is often associated with political activities, similar behaviours can emerge among young people in schools and should not be tolerated. He emphasized that the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999) was enacted to prevent the formation and operation of vigilante groups and to strengthen peace and security in Ghana.
According to him, the law makes it a criminal offence to form, organize, finance, support, recruit for, or participate in vigilante groups. Individuals found guilty of such offences may face severe sanctions, including imprisonment ranging from ten to fifteen years.
He encouraged teachers and school authorities to actively promote peaceful conflict resolution, discipline, tolerance, and dialogue within the school environment to prevent the emergence of violent behaviours among students.
Raising Awareness on Small Arms and Light Weapons
Mr. Emmanuel Kenneth Oduro, Regional Director of the Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission (SALW), educated participants on the dangers associated with the illegal possession, misuse, and proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
He explained that illegal arms remain one of the major threats to peace and security in Ghana and can contribute significantly to violence, criminal activities, and the loss of innocent lives when they fall into the wrong hands.
Mr. Oduro stressed that unlawful possession or use of firearms is a serious criminal offence under Ghanaian law and may result in arrest, prosecution, and imprisonment. He therefore urged teachers to remain vigilant and support efforts aimed at preventing weapons from finding their way into educational institutions and communities.
Building a Culture of Peace
The programme highlighted the critical role teachers and school staff play in shaping the attitudes and behaviours of students. Participants were encouraged to become advocates for peace by promoting dialogue, mutual respect, tolerance, and non-violent approaches to resolving disputes.
The initiative is expected to enhance understanding of peaceful coexistence, strengthen participation in conflict prevention efforts, and contribute to the development of future generations of responsible and peace-loving citizens.
Participating Institutions
The programme was attended by representatives from:
- Ashanti Regional Peace Council (ARPC)
- Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission (SALW)
- Fomena T.I. Ahmadiyya Senior High School
Approximately 50 teachers and members of staff participated in the sensitization programme.
Conclusion
The engagement reaffirmed the commitment of the Ashanti Regional Peace Council and its partners to promoting peace and security within educational institutions. By equipping teachers with knowledge on vigilantism, student violence, conflict prevention, and the dangers of illegal arms, the programme contributes to creating safer learning environments and strengthening peacebuilding efforts across the region.
