Mankessim: The Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) and its partners have embarked on an educational initiative targeting basic school students in Mankessim, as part of activities to mark the 2025 African Union Anti-Corruption Day (AUACD). The programme, held at Methodist 'B' and Closefield Basic Schools, aimed to equip students with the knowledge and tools to act with integrity and demand accountability.
According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative was organized by GACC through the Mfantseman Local Accountability Network (LANet) in partnership with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), with support from the Hewlett Foundation. Under the theme 'Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,' the programme emphasized the importance of addressing corruption, promoting accountability, and empowering students to avoid bribery and related issues.
The students were educated on various types of corruption and their effects on institutions and the nation, encouraging them to report corrupt practices to the appropriate authorities. The School Improvement Support Officer, Mr. Samuel Atakli, expressed optimism that the initiative would significantly contribute to the moral awareness of the students.
Central Regional Director of Education, Dr. Juliette Dufie Otami, and Municipal Director of Education, Mr. Ransford Appiah, expressed confidence in the positive impact the initiative would have on the students, aiming for a better future. Very Rev Prof Mark Nii Lamptey, the Anti-Corruption Focal Person for Mfantseman, highlighted the importance of AUACD in raising public awareness about corruption and empowering young people to actively participate in the fight against it.
Rev Prof Lamptey stated that since 2018, GACC has prioritized young people in their anti-corruption efforts, recognizing their vulnerability to corruption and their potential as future leaders. The initiative seeks to empower young people to speak up against corruption and promote whistleblowing as a safe and powerful tool.
He called on the youth to be fully empowered, stand against corruption, and demand accountability from duty bearers, emphasizing the importance of identifying issues that hinder growth and contributing to a more just society.
Madam Felicia Clark, Headmistress of Methodist 'B' Basic School, and Madam Esther Smile, Headmistress of Closefield School, thanked the organizers for the programme, which aims to help students understand corruption and the importance of integrity and moral living.
