By Mildred Siabi-Mensah
Apremdo (WR), June 02, GNA – Mr. Andrew Ofori Larbi, the Western Regional Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), says the future of Ghana’s democracy depended on how well today’s children understand and live the values of the Constitution of Ghana.
Mr. Larbi told the Ghana News Agency on the sidelines of an interaction with the pupils of the Apremdo Catholic School to mark the celebration of the Citizenship Week, that, children must not be seen just as learners, but as voices of responsibility and change.
He said children actively contributed to national conversations on governance, rights and responsibilities in this digital world where children are already active participants, adding civic education must meet them where they are.
The 2026 Citizenship Week sought to strengthen children’s understanding of their rights and responsibilities, both offline and online, promote responsible digital behaviour, including respectful communication and safe online practices, raise awareness on online risks such as cyberbullying, misinformation and digital fraud and provide a platform for children to share their experiences and perspectives as active citizens.
He educated the children on their rights in the digital space and the need to be aware of cyber offences and run away from it.
The Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) establishes the national cybersecurity framework and mandates protection of individuals, including children, from cyber threats, cyber harassment, unlawful access, and misuse of digital systems.
He noted the need to supports child online protection through national cybersecurity coordination and enforcement mechanisms and emphasise safety, protection from abuse and exploitation and the shared responsibility of state institutions, families and communities including emerging digital contexts.
Nana Mozu VIII, the Queenmother of Apremdo, noted how cyberbullying could have a serious emotional, social, psychological and academic effects on victims.
He said: “Many victims express sadness, anxiety, fear, low self-esteem, and depression. Some may avoid school or social activities because of embarrassment or stress. In extreme cases, cyberbullying has led to self-harm and suicide.
“This also affects academic performance and relationships with others.”
She therefore called on the pupils to use social media responsibly and maintain a healthy balance between online and real-life activities.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Mildred Siabi-Mensah
Email: [email protected]