The National Commission for Civic Education has intensified its anti-corruption education campaign in schools, engaging students of Pope John Senior High School and Minor Seminary in the New Juaben North Municipality on issues of governance, accountability, and ethical leadership.
The programme, part of the Participation, Accountability, and Integrity for a Resilient Democracy (PAIRED) project, focused on practical understanding of corruption-related behaviours such as influence peddling, abuse of office, and conflicts of interest in decision-making processes.
Backed by development partners including the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, the European Union, the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, the initiative aims to strengthen civic awareness among young people.
Speaking to the students, Ophelia Nana Yaa Ankrah urged them to uphold integrity in all aspects of life, warning that even seemingly minor dishonest practices, such as examination malpractice, can develop into deeper forms of corruption.
She emphasized that Ghana’s fight against corruption depends on collective responsibility, particularly the moral choices of the younger generation.
At the municipal level, Juliet Yeboah Simpey broke down key corruption concepts, explaining that influence peddling involves exploiting personal connections for unfair advantage, while abuse of office refers to using authority to manipulate or coerce others unlawfully.
Security perspectives were also introduced by Samuel Adu, who explained the rule of law as a system where all individuals and institutions are held equally accountable under fair and independently enforced laws.
He stressed that respect for the law and ethical conduct among citizens and leaders are essential foundations for a corruption-free society.
Representing human rights oversight, Hannah Morrison encouraged public servants to make merit-based decisions devoid of personal interest.
School authorities, including Abraham Ayivi, commended the initiative, noting that such engagements help prepare students to become responsible and accountable future leaders.
