NCCE Sissala East Educates Civic Education Club Members on Sexual Harassment

The Sissala East Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has sensitized members of Civic Education Clubs (CECs) in selected basic schools on the signs, forms, and dangers of sexual harassment.

The schools visited during the sensitization exercise included Falahia Basic School, Egala Basic School, Tumu Basic School and United Basic School. The engagement formed part of the Commission’s continuous effort to educate young people on their rights, personal safety, responsible conduct and the need to speak up against abuse.

During the interaction, pupils were taken through the various types of sexual harassment, including verbal, physical, non-verbal and digital harassment. Facilitators explained that verbal harassment may include sexually suggestive comments, unwanted jokes, threats, teasing or inappropriate remarks. Physical harassment was also explained to include unwanted touching, grabbing, hugging, blocking someone’s movement or any form of physical contact that makes a person uncomfortable.

The pupils were further educated on non-verbal harassment, including offensive gestures, staring, displaying inappropriate images or behaving in a way that makes another person feel unsafe. They were also sensitized on digital sexual harassment, which may occur through mobile phones, social media platforms or online communication, including the sending of inappropriate messages, pictures, videos or requests.

The NCCE officials cautioned the pupils that sexual harassment can affect a child’s confidence, emotional well-being, academic performance and general development. They emphasized that no child should suffer in silence or feel afraid to report any form of harassment.

The pupils were encouraged to speak up and immediately report anyone who attempts to harass them sexually, whether the person is a family member, family friend, relative, teacher, colleague, stranger or any other person in a position of trust. They were advised to report such incidents to parents, guardians, teachers, school authorities, the police or other trusted adults who can offer protection and support.

Facilitators also urged the learners to respect their own bodies and the bodies of others, maintain appropriate personal boundaries and avoid situations that may expose them to danger. They were encouraged to be confident, alert and courageous in rejecting inappropriate behaviour from anyone.

The pupils were further advised to challenge harmful cultural norms and practices that silence victims, protect offenders or discourage children from reporting abuse. They were reminded that sexual harassment is unacceptable and that every child has the right to learn and grow in a safe, respectful and supportive environment.

The session was interactive, allowing pupils to ask questions, share their views and learn practical ways to identify, avoid and report sexual harassment. The engagement helped deepen their understanding of personal safety, child protection and responsible citizenship.

The Sissala East Municipal Office of the NCCE reaffirmed its commitment to promoting civic awareness, child protection and the development of responsible young citizens who understand their rights and responsibilities.