Violent Extremism Prevention: NCCE Engages Youth in Builsa North Municipality.

Builsa North: The Builsa North Municipal Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has initiated an engagement with youth groups across the municipality as a strategic move to prevent and contain violent extremist activities. The program forms part of the NCCE's initiatives under the European Union-supported project titled 'Preventing and Containing Violent Extremism (PCVE),' which focuses on promoting non-violence, peace, tolerance, and countering violent extremism at district levels.According to Ghana News Agency, the engagement aims to instill a sense of patriotism, civic responsibility, inclusive values, and social recognition among the youth, fostering a sense of belonging to their communities. Mr. Jeffrey Adda, Municipal Director of NCCE, emphasized the significant global security threat posed by violent extremism, highlighting the alarming trend of young people being targeted and radicalized by extremist groups.Mr. Adda explained that during election periods, when political and social tensions are heightened, extremists exploit these conditions, using sophisticated propaganda and recruitment strategies, particularly on social media, to influence young individuals. He noted that radicalization is a gradual process, with young people seeking identity, purpose, or belonging potentially more susceptible to recruitment.The engagement seeks to enlighten the youth on the negative repercussions of joining violent extremist groups and the legal frameworks prohibiting such activities. Mr. Adda underscored the importance of collaboration with stakeholders, especially security agencies, to effectively combat this menace during the upcoming 2024 elections.In pursuing the main objective of the PCVE project, the Director stressed the engagement's role in promoting social cohesion, peace, and tolerance in the northern regions and other hotspots in Ghana. With the elections approaching, he highlighted the necessity of preventing vote buying, misinformation, and disinformation.Mr. Adda also noted the critical nature of the Commission's campaign against fake news to protect the democratic process, emphasizing media literacy, critical thinking, and responsible information sharing. He reiterated the importance of making electoral choices based on facts rather than falsehoods, reminding Ghanaians to uphold constitutional supremacy, the rule of law, and a vibrant media landscape.Assistant Superintendent of Police Joseph Tabiri, Builsa North Municipal Police Commander, urged the youth to maintain peace and democracy in the country, especially during the upcoming December 7 elections, reinforcing Ghana's reputation as a beacon of peace in Africa.