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 Liberty Avenue 1–4 Basic School and Liberty Avenue 2 JHS. 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 Council’s mandate in peacebuilding and conflict prevention.

The project aimed 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 National Peace Council.

The expected outcomes included improved understanding among pupils of respect, tolerance, unity, and non-violence; 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, respectful, and supportive school environment; and increased awareness of the Council’s mandate.

The programme was funded by the Greater Accra Regional Peace Council (GARPC) and implemented in collaboration with Liberty Avenue 1–4 Basic School and Liberty Avenue 2 JHS. It took place on 19th June 2026 at the respective school premises. No official dignitaries were listed for the programme.

At Liberty Avenue 1–4 Basic School, Mrs. Esther Kwarteng introduced the National Peace Council and explained its mandate in promoting peace, preventing conflicts, and fostering unity within schools and communities. She emphasized the importance of embracing diversity, noting that students should accept one another regardless of differences in ethnicity, background, religion, or personal traits. She further highlighted integrity as a key value for responsible behaviour, encouraging students to practice honesty, discipline, and accountability. She also stressed the importance of dialogue and mutual respect in resolving disagreements peacefully and advised students to report misconduct to teachers instead of taking matters into their own hands. She concluded by encouraging learners to avoid bullying and promote kindness, respect, and understanding.

At Liberty Avenue 2 JHS, Madam Martha Letimwe Deribaa (Programmes Manager) focused on key values necessary for peacebuilding in schools and society. She emphasized integrity as essential for developing responsible individuals, encouraging students to uphold honesty and strong moral principles. She also highlighted tolerance, urging students to accept and respect one another despite differences in background, opinions, or beliefs, noting that tolerance reduces conflict and promotes peaceful coexistence. In addition, she stressed the importance of dialogue, explaining that open and respectful communication is vital for resolving misunderstandings and preventing conflict escalation.

The programme reached a total of 182 students, comprising 62 students from Liberty Avenue 1–4 Basic School and 120 students from Liberty Avenue 2 JHS, contributing to the promotion of peace, discipline, and positive behaviour within the school community.