The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) implores students and young Ghanaians to actively lead the charge against corruption. The commission stated that corruption has deeply affected Ghana’s core values and slowed down its progress. Young people are urged to uphold integrity, demand accountability, and respect the rule of law.
Augustine Akugri, the Deputy Upper East Regional Director of the NCCE, stressed that young people must gain the necessary knowledge and values. This empowerment will enable them to demand accountability and promote ethical leadership. He spoke at a university symposium in Navrongo. The event was a collaboration between the NCCE and the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS). Funding for the symposium came from the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the European Union. Student leaders, university officials, and community leaders attended. They discussed ethical leadership, accountability, and the rule of law. Weak adherence to ethical rules and a lack of understanding about accountability measures harm public trust and institutional credibility in Ghana, Mr. Akugri noted.
This engagement is part of the "Civic Engagements on the Rule of Law and the Fight Against Corruption" initiative. It falls under the Participation, Accountability, and Integrity for a Resilient Democracy (PAIReD) programme. This programme sees young people as future leaders and decision-makers. It aims to create youth ambassadors who will promote transparency and responsible leadership. These ambassadors will work within their schools, communities, and institutions. Mr. Akugri stressed the need for regular civic education. This education helps young people grasp ethical leadership principles and accountability systems. Students play a vital role in promoting accountability and good civic behaviour.
Edmond Alagpulinsa, Principal Investigative Officer at the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), stated that ethical leadership is fundamental to good governance. Ethical leadership requires honesty, fairness, and professionalism. Leaders who prioritize public interest over personal gain build confidence. They also strengthen democratic governance. Mr. Alagpulinsa warned against influence peddling. This is the misuse of power or connections for unfair advantages. It weakens meritocracy, transparency, and justice. Public officials must avoid conflicts of interest. They should not let personal or financial matters sway official decisions. Such actions can lead to corruption and abuse of power.
Regarding the rule of law, Mr. Alagpulinsa reminded everyone that no one is above the law, regardless of their status. Citizens should use legal channels for grievances. They must also respect others' rights. He also explained the Whistleblower Act, 2006. This act allows for reporting corruption and mismanagement. Disclosures can be made to institutions like the Police, CHRAJ, and the Economic and Organised Crime Office. The Act encourages young people to report corrupt acts. Those whose reports lead to recovering public funds or convicting offenders may receive rewards. The Whistleblowers Reward Fund supports this. Professor Ohene Boansi Apiah, Dean of Students at UTAS, praised the NCCE and its partners. He encouraged students to take the lessons to heart to improve their civic responsibilities.
During an open discussion, students raised concerns about corruption in hiring. They also discussed the impact of 'protocol' in job acquisition. They inquired about state institutions' efforts to fight corruption. Participants pledged to use their new knowledge. They committed to exposing corrupt practices and promoting integrity. They will do this within their own communities and institutions.