Use Social Media Wisely to Avoid Violent Extremism – Peace Council Cautions Students.

BOLGATANGA: Mr David Angaamba, the Principal Programmes Manager of the Upper East Regional Peace Council, has issued a caution to tertiary students regarding the potential threats posed by online predators as they use social media to aid their studies. He emphasized the importance of vigilance to prevent being radicalized by violent extremists who exploit social media platforms to recruit victims.According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Angaamba addressed these concerns during an interview at the Zuarungu Nurses Training School in the Bolgatanga East District, following a sensitization session focused on violent extremism. This session is part of the broader initiative on Prevention and Containing Violent Extremism, conducted in collaboration with the National Commission on Civic Education.Mr Angaamba highlighted that tertiary students, as part of the youth demographic with varied backgrounds, are susceptible to influence. He pointed out that some students come from volatile environments where intolerance is pr evalent, potentially leading to the radicalization of their peers and instigating riots that can result in injuries, fatalities, and property damage.He further noted that in the Upper East region, secondary schools have recently been associated with student riots, not for commendable reasons. Mr Angaamba expressed concern that upon graduation, students might face unemployment, making them vulnerable to recruitment by extremist groups who promise better livelihoods through persuasive rhetoric.During the session, Mr Angaamba educated the student nurses on identifying triggers, understanding the impacts, and resisting the allure of terrorism. He acknowledged that violent extremism is a genuine threat and cited local circumstances like marginalization and unresolved conflicts that increase regional vulnerability. Nonetheless, he expressed optimism, noting Ghana's advantage due to the strong social cohesion prevalent in its communities.