By Yussif Ibrahim, GNA
Kumasi, July 18, GNA – Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has called on newly sworn-in officers of Senior High School Justice Clubs in the Ashanti Region to become “ambassadors of justice” in every sphere of their lives.
He emphasised that true leadership is proven through example, not office.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie was speaking at the inauguration of Justice Clubs and the swearing-in of officers of 10 Senior High School Justice Clubs in the Region, held at Opoku Ware School in Kumasi.
The event brought together students and officials from Afua Kobi Ampem Girls Senior High School, Anglican Senior High School, Dwamena Akenten Senior High School, Effiduase Senior High School, Juaben Senior High School, Konongo Odumase Senior High School, Opoku Ware School, Prempeh College, St. Monica’s Senior High School, and Yaa Asantewaa Girls’ Senior High School.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, drawing on the metaphor of nations “planting” for their children, said while some nations plant ambition and others plant knowledge, the wisest nations plant character, noting that knowledge without character could be dangerous, just as ambition without integrity could be destructive.
He said Ghana, through the Justice Clubs, was choosing to plant justice in its young people, and congratulated all students gathered, particularly those who had accepted leadership roles within the clubs.
“You have not merely elected to hold office. You have accepted the privilege of carrying an idea – an idea far older than all of us and one that every generation must faithfully hand over to the next,” he said.
The Chief Justice charged the newly sworn-in officers to understand not only the language of the law but also its spirit, stressing that while knowledge of the law was valuable, love for justice was what ultimately sustained a nation.
He reminded the students that leadership was not measured by vows or titles but by example, adding that discipline and respect exhibited by leaders naturally multiplied among those they led, turning young leaders into teachers “every single day,” often without their realising it.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie urged the officers to carry the values of justice beyond the classroom into their homes, churches, mosques, communities, friendships, and eventual workplaces.
“Carry justice into every conversation, fairness into every decision, and integrity into every opportunity. For these are the habits which will remain with us for life,” he said.
Justice Prof. Olivia Anku-Tsede, Chair of the Chief Justice’s Mentoring Programme, said the initiative was designed to bring the law closer to young people and spark curiosity about the law and its impact on their daily lives.
She said that vision had since expanded into the establishment of Justice Clubs, which brought that same insight closer to students and served as spaces where knowledge inspires and learning becomes transformation.
Justice Prof. Anku-Tsede noted that through the clubs, students received mentorship from distinguished judges and lawyers, participated in various activities, and reflected on real-life issues shaping society, adding that the programme was proud to be grounded in inclusivity.
She said since the inception of the Mentoring Programme, organisers have been encouraged by the inspiring stories of many Justice Club members, which continued to affirm the power of guidance, opportunity, and belief in the potential of young people.
The Chair emphasised that the Justice Club was not intended only for students aspiring to become lawyers or judges, stressing that membership was open to every student regardless of their intended career path.
She said the club offered a unique platform for young people to develop critical thinking, analytical reasoning, ethical leadership, and effective communication, alongside a deep appreciation for justice.
Justice Prof. Anku-Tsede said this year’s theme for the Chief Justice’s Mentoring Programme, “Cyber Security and Emerging Threats,” spoke directly to the realities of the digital era and was aimed at empowering the youth to navigate it responsibly.
“The Justice Clubs we inaugurate today are more than school societies; they are training grounds for responsible digital citizens and future leaders,” she said.
GNA
Edited by Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Yussif Ibrahim
Reporter’s email address:[email protected]