NCCE Central Tongu and Compassion Ghana Educate Caregivers and Pupils on Reporting Child Abuse

The Central Tongu District Office of the National Commission for Civic Education, in collaboration with Compassion Ghana at Mafi Dugame, has engaged caregivers and pupils on child protection and the need to report abuse through the appropriate channels.

The engagement was held on 16th May 2026 at the Mafi Dugame Presbyterian Park during a community durbar organised by Compassion Ghana. It focused on the topic, “How to Report Abuse,” and sought to deepen public awareness on child protection, parental responsibility, and the role of communities in safeguarding children.

Representing the NCCE were Madam Doris Elikplim Wagba and Mr. Frank Azumah, who took participants through the mandate of the Commission and the importance of civic education in promoting responsible citizenship. Madam Wagba explained that the NCCE works to promote and sustain democracy by creating awareness among citizens about their rights and obligations.

She noted that child protection is a shared responsibility and must be taken seriously by parents, guardians, caregivers, teachers, community leaders, and all members of society. She said children must be protected from all forms of harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation to enable them grow in safety, dignity, and confidence.

Taking participants through the main topic, Mr. Frank Azumah explained the meaning of abuse and highlighted the various forms of child abuse. He educated caregivers and pupils on the consequences of abuse, stressing that it can affect a child’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, education, confidence, and future development.

Mr. Azumah placed particular emphasis on sexual abuse, noting that such cases must never be compromised or concealed. He urged caregivers to report suspected cases immediately to the appropriate institutions, especially when there is evidence or when a child makes a disclosure.

He mentioned the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service, the Department of Social Welfare, and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) as some of the institutions that can receive or assist with abuse-related cases. He added that members of the public may also contact the NCCE for guidance, referral, and immediate direction on where to report such matters.

Mr. Azumah further encouraged caregivers not to remain silent when abuse occurs, even if the alleged perpetrator is a family member or close relation. He stressed that protecting the child must always come first and that silence can expose children to further harm.

Caregivers were also urged to create a safe and friendly environment at home so that children can freely report uncomfortable experiences, threats, or abuse. Mr. Azumah reminded participants that children are the future of the community and the nation, and their protection must remain a top priority.

The Director of Compassion Ghana, Mafi Dugame Branch, Mr. Foster Zagato, commended the NCCE for extending civic education to the community. He expressed appreciation for the partnership and encouraged caregivers to apply the knowledge gained to help protect children from abuse.