NCCE Ledzokuku Sensitizes Teshie Lekma 5 JHS Students on Child Trafficking

The Ledzokuku Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has organized a sensitization programme for students of Teshie Lekma 5 Junior High School at Teshie Gonnor to educate them on the dangers of child trafficking and exploitation.

The programme, held on Wednesday, 17th June 2026, formed part of the Commission’s continuous efforts to protect children through civic education and public awareness. The NCCE team included Mr. Joshua Akinwale, and Madam Sandra Nyarko, who joined the engagement as part of the municipal team.

Delivering the main presentation, Mr. Akinwale educated the students on the meaning and forms of child trafficking. He explained that child trafficking involves the recruitment, movement, transfer, harbouring, or receipt of children through deception, force, coercion, or false promises for purposes such as forced labour, domestic servitude, sexual exploitation, and other forms of abuse.

He noted that traffickers often take advantage of vulnerable children by presenting attractive but deceptive offers, including promises of jobs, education, travel opportunities, money, or a better life. He therefore urged the students to be alert and cautious when approached by strangers or even familiar persons who make offers without the knowledge and consent of their parents or guardians.

The students were also taken through some warning signs of possible trafficking. These included adults offering gifts, money, jobs, or trips in secret, people encouraging children to hide information from their families, and strangers showing unusual interest in their personal lives. Mr. Akinwale advised the students to question offers that appear too attractive and to avoid keeping suspicious relationships or conversations secret.

On personal safety, he encouraged the learners not to travel with strangers, avoid isolated places, and always inform their parents or guardians about their movements. He further reminded them to trust their instincts and seek help immediately whenever they feel uncomfortable, threatened, or unsafe.

Mr. Akinwale also stressed the importance of speaking up against child trafficking. He advised the students to report suspicious activities, attempted trafficking, or any form of exploitation to trusted adults, including parents, teachers, police officers, social welfare officers, or other relevant authorities. He emphasized that silence can protect perpetrators, while timely reporting can save lives and prevent others from becoming victims.

The engagement gave the students practical knowledge on how to identify risks, protect themselves, and support colleagues who may be vulnerable to exploitation. It also reinforced the role of schools, families, and communities in safeguarding children from trafficking and abuse.

The programme was well received by the students and school authorities, who expressed appreciation to the NCCE for the timely education. The Ledzokuku Municipal Office of the NCCE reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining civic education outreach in schools and empowering young people with the knowledge needed to stay safe, responsible, and protected.