The Upper East Regional Peace Council organized a sensitisation program at St. John Bosco College of Education to educate teacher trainees on countering violent extremism and hate speech. Utilizing comic books, the event equipped students with knowledge to resist radicalization, promote peaceful conflict resolution, and engage in community vigilance against illicit arms. Prominent speakers emphasized the critical role of educators in this collective responsibility.
The Upper East Regional Peace Council has conducted a sensitisation program aimed at combating violent extremism and hate speech for trainees at St. John Bosco College of Education in Navrongo. Through the use of comic books, the initiative informed students about how extremist groups exploit vulnerable individuals, empowering them to deliver alternative narratives that promote peace and factual discourse.
This program equipped the trainees with strategies to resist radicalisation, resolve conflicts peacefully, and recognize the tactics used by extremist groups to manipulate young minds. Students were encouraged to act as agents of peace, fostering safe spaces for discussions on pressing issues and emphasizing the harnessing of these discussions into positive actions rather than succumbing to extremist ideals.
This sensitisation falls under the “Sensitisation on Alternative Counter-Narratives to Prevent Violent Extremism for Students” initiative, funded by Norway, Australia, Germany, and Denmark through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Mr. Ali Anankpieng, the Executive Secretary of the Peace Council, highlighted the pivotal role teacher trainees play in maintaining community and national peace, urging them to educate future generations against extremist ideologies.
Additionally, Mr. Victor Abo-Ame Akanbonga from the Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons emphasized the importance of reporting illicit arms, as their proliferation significantly contributes to societal violence and instability. He urged students to take proactive measures in their communities to uphold security.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Kingsley Kanda reiterated the importance of community vigilance. He encouraged students to report suspicious activities promptly, reinforcing that preventing potential attacks depends on early detection.
Mr. Seth Okang from the Narcotics Control Commission cautioned students about drug use, warning of severe legal and health repercussions including prison sentences for illegal substance usage. Engineer Michael Atayire, the Student Affairs Officer, expressed gratitude towards the Peace Council for enlightening students on these crucial matters, emphasizing how such initiatives enhance peace and promote a conducive academic environment within the institution.
The sensitisation program conducted by the Upper East Regional Peace Council effectively equipped teacher trainees at St. John Bosco College of Education with critical knowledge and practical tools to counter violent extremism and hate speech. Through education, community vigilance, and proactive engagement, the program aims to foster a culture of peace and resilience against extremist ideologies. The collaboration with various international agencies underlines the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring societal stability and security.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
