Peace Education and Sensitization for Junior High School Students (Greater Accra Region)

The Greater Accra Regional Peace Council (GARPC) organized a peace education and sensitization programme for students of Nii Amugi Avenue Basic School in the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly. The engagement was held on the school premises and focused on promoting positive behaviour, tolerance, inclusivity, and peaceful coexistence among basic school pupils, while also strengthening awareness of the National Peace Council and its mandate.

The objective of the programme was to promote positive behaviour, tolerance, and inclusivity among basic school students; educate pupils on the importance of respect, kindness, and empathy; raise awareness about bullying and its effects on individuals and the school environment; promote acceptance of diversity; encourage positive peer relationships and teamwork; guide students on responsible behaviour in school and daily interactions; and educate pupils on the existence and mandate of the Council.

The expected outcomes included improved understanding of respect, tolerance, unity, and non-violence among pupils; increased awareness of the effects of bullying and encouragement to avoid such behaviours; improved attitudes in peer interactions; greater willingness to include and support one another; a more positive and supportive school environment; and increased awareness of the Council’s mandate and role in national peacebuilding.

The programme was funded by the Greater Accra Regional Peace Council (GARPC) and implemented in collaboration with Nii Amugi Avenue Basic School. It took place on 17th June 2026 at the school premises. No dignitaries were officially listed for the event.

In his presentation, George Oko Mensah (Ag. Regional Executive Secretary, GARPC) informed students about the National Peace Council and its establishment under the National Peace Council Act, 2011 (Act 818). He explained the Council’s mandate in preventing, managing, and resolving conflicts and promoting sustainable peace across Ghana. He further educated students on the concept of conflict, its causes in everyday interactions, and its impact on individuals, schools, and communities. He emphasized the importance of resolving disputes peacefully to prevent escalation and highlighted that student violence can result in physical injury, emotional trauma, poor academic performance, damaged relationships, and disruption of the learning environment. He advised students to report conflicts to school authorities rather than resorting to personal retaliation and encouraged them to avoid insulting or attacking teachers, reminding them that educators are committed to their success and development.

Madam Esther Kwarteng (Assistant Programmes Manager) focused on peace values such as respect, tolerance, inclusivity, dialogue, and diversity within the school environment. She emphasized that these values promote discipline, cooperation, mutual understanding, and harmonious coexistence among students. She also addressed bullying, particularly cases involving older students intimidating younger ones, stressing that every student deserves dignity, acceptance, and respect. She encouraged learners to avoid all forms of bullying and instead build relationships based on kindness, love, and understanding. She further urged students to use respectful dialogue to resolve disagreements and avoid violent or hostile responses.

The programme directly benefited a total of 83 students (42 males and 41 females), contributing to the promotion of peace, discipline, and positive behaviour within the school community.