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 Mayera Methodist Basic School in the Ga North Municipal Assembly. The engagement was held on the school premises and focused on promoting positive behaviour, tolerance, inclusivity, and peaceful coexistence among pupils, while strengthening awareness of the National Peace Council’s mandate in conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

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 increase awareness of the Council’s mandate and role in national peacebuilding.

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 existence and mandate.

The programme was funded by the Greater Accra Regional Peace Council (GARPC) and implemented in collaboration with Mayera Methodist Basic School. It took place on 19th June 2026 at the school premises. The dignitary present was Very Rev. Benjamin Ekow Paapa Nyankson.

In his presentation, Mr. George Oko Mensah (Ag. Regional Executive Secretary, GARPC) educated students and teachers on the National Peace Council Act, 2011 (Act 818), explaining the Council’s mandate in promoting peace, mediating disputes, and supporting conflict prevention and resolution in Ghana. He illustrated key concepts such as conflict prevention, conflict management, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding using practical examples. He explained that conflict is a natural part of human interaction, noting the difference between constructive and destructive conflict and emphasizing that outcomes depend on how conflict is managed. He further highlighted the negative effects of violence on teaching, learning, relationships, and student well-being, while stressing that peaceful environments improve safety, academic performance, and school cohesion. He cautioned students against the use of objects such as pencils and broken bottles as weapons, warning of legal and disciplinary consequences. He encouraged students to adopt dialogue, negotiation, and mediation as effective alternatives to violence.

Mr. Isaac Prince Glorier (Assistant Programmes Manager) engaged students on core values that promote peaceful coexistence within the school environment. He highlighted six key peace values: diversity (respecting differences), dialogue (effective communication in resolving conflicts), integrity (honesty and accountability), inclusivity (ensuring everyone feels valued), tolerance (accepting diverse opinions), and trust-building (promoting reliability and support among peers).

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