By Hafsa Obeng
Accra, Nov. 12, GNA – The National Peace Council (NPC) has embarked on a peace education campaign in selected senior high schools (SHSs) in the Greater Accra Region as part of its 2025 Capacity Development and Advocacy Initiative for second cycle institutions.
The two-day engagement aims to instill values of peace, tolerance, and mutual respect among students, while sensitising them to adopt nonviolent approaches in resolving grievances and promoting peaceful coexistence.
The peace education initiative forms part of the NPC’s broader efforts to promote a culture of peace and nonviolence among Ghanaian youth, particularly in schools.
On Tuesday, the Council visited St. Margaret Mary SHS at Dansoman and Kinbu Secondary Technical School at Tudu and on Wednesday continued the exercise at the Kaneshie Senior Technical School.
Madam Janet Sarney-Kuma, Director of Capacity Building and Outreach at the NPC, said the Council, established under Act 818, was mandated to prevent, manage, and resolve conflicts while sustaining national peace.
She explained that conflict was a natural human occurrence and often arose unexpectedly, hence the need for students to develop skills to manage and resolve disputes peacefully.
“When you have disagreements, try to discuss them among yourselves to find amicable solutions or seek guidance from peers, teachers, and school authorities. Violence is never the answer. It only worsens situations and diverts your focus from your education and future.”
Madam Sarney-Kuma urged students to respect and tolerate one another, regardless of their personal, regional, or social backgrounds.
Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu, a Board Member, NPC, encouraged the students to take their studies seriously, describing their current stage as a crucial phase of transition and self-discovery.
“Education prepares you to be useful adults to yourselves, your families, and the nation. Missing this stage would be detrimental to your future, as it is the period when your hidden talents begin to unfold,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of discipline and adherence to school rules, warning against truancy, lateness, and all forms of indiscipline or violence.
“Your teachers represent your parents in school and wish for your success. Understand where you are, appreciate your opportunities, and value the sacrifices being made for your education,” Sheikh Shaibu added.
He cautioned the students to be mindful of the company they kept, reminding them that their future depended on the “choices they make today.”
“You are in this life for a purpose. Stay focused on it for a brighter future. Do not bring disgrace to yourself, your family, religion, or community through bad behaviour.”
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe