Promoting Peace and Discipline During Inter-School Sports Competitions in Eastern Region
Region: Eastern Region
Date & Venue: 12th March 2026 – Koforidua Technical Institute
The Eastern Regional Peace Council (ERPC), in collaboration with Ghana TVET Schools – Eastern Region and Koforidua Technical Institute, organized a program aimed at preventing hooliganism during inter-school sports competitions while raising awareness on the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999). The initiative engaged students on promoting discipline, tolerance, and responsible behavior during sporting activities.
Objectives of the Program
The program focused on:
- Educating students on the causes and consequences of hooliganism and violent behaviour during sports events.
- Sensitizing students on the legal provisions of the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019, and its implications for organized violence.
- Promoting discipline, tolerance, and sportsmanship among students.
- Strengthening collaboration between educational institutions and peacebuilding bodies to prevent violence in schools.
Expected Outcomes
The initiative aimed to:
- Increase awareness of the dangers and consequences of hooliganism in sports competitions.
- Improve discipline and sportsmanship among students.
- Enhance understanding of the legal consequences of participating in organized violence or vigilantism.
- Strengthen partnerships between peacebuilding institutions and schools in promoting safe, peaceful learning environments.
Highlights from Key Addresses
Mr. Evans Mensah – Regional P.E. Coordinator, TVET Schools
“Sports competitions are opportunities to promote unity, teamwork, and discipline, not rivalry or violence. Students should demonstrate sportsmanship, respect rules, and build friendships across schools rather than engage in hooliganism.”
Mr. Prince Albert Koomson – Regional Executive Secretary, ERPC
“Peer pressure, school rivalry, and lack of emotional control can lead to violence during sports events. The Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999) criminalizes organized violence and participation in vigilante groups. Students must act as peace ambassadors by promoting tolerance, discipline, and respect during sporting activities to safeguard their schools and communities.”
Participating Institutions
- Eastern Regional Peace Council (ERPC)
- Ghana TVET Schools – Eastern Region
- Koforidua Technical Institute
About 300 students participated, with 40 students joining the Peace Club as Peace Ambassadors, pledging to promote peaceful coexistence and positive behavior during school sporting events.
