Tano North NCCE and CHRAJ Reach 30 Schools During Citizenship Week Celebration

The Tano North District Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), in collaboration with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), successfully marked the 2026 Citizenship Week Celebration by engaging pupils across the district on responsible digital citizenship and constitutional values.

The week-long educational campaign, which ran from 26th May to 3rd June 2026, saw officials of the two institutions visit a total of thirty (30) public and private basic schools within the district. The exercise formed part of efforts to educate young people on their civic responsibilities and equip them with the knowledge needed to navigate the digital space responsibly.

Leading the engagements were the Tano North District Director of NCCE, Mr. Joseph Oduro-Buabeng, his staff, and the District Director of CHRAJ, Mr. Victor Osei. The team engaged pupils on the Citizenship Week sub-theme, **“Growing Up Digital: The Ghanaian Child Upholding the Constitution Online.”**

Addressing the learners, the facilitators explained that digital technology has transformed the way children communicate, learn, socialize, and express themselves. They noted that smartphones and internet-based platforms have become important tools for education, communication, and access to information.

The pupils were taken through the responsible use of popular digital platforms such as WhatsApp, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and online gaming platforms. The facilitators highlighted both the opportunities and risks associated with these technologies and encouraged learners to use them wisely.

Transitioning to responsible online behaviour, the resource persons emphasized that the digital space should be used to promote positive values, creativity, learning, and community development. They encouraged the pupils to ensure that their conduct online reflects the same discipline, respect, and responsibility expected of them in their everyday lives.

The learners were also cautioned against cyberbullying, the spread of misinformation, online abuse, and other harmful practices that can negatively affect individuals and society. They were advised to think carefully before posting or sharing content online and to respect the rights and privacy of others.

Particular emphasis was placed on the responsible exercise of freedom of expression. The facilitators explained that while the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, this right must be exercised responsibly and in a manner that promotes peace, mutual respect, and national development.

The pupils were therefore encouraged to use their voices and digital platforms to advocate for positive change within their communities rather than engaging in insults, abusive language, or disrespectful behaviour towards elders, leaders, and fellow citizens.

The programme also highlighted the importance of constitutional values such as respect for the rule of law, tolerance, patriotism, and responsible citizenship. Students were reminded that they have a role to play in safeguarding Ghana's democracy and contributing to national development.

The interactive engagements provided learners with the opportunity to ask questions and share their experiences regarding social media use and online safety. The discussions helped deepen their understanding of both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with growing up in the digital age.

The successful outreach programme reinforced the objectives of Citizenship Week and equipped pupils with practical knowledge on responsible digital citizenship, constitutional values, and the importance of using technology as a force for positive social change.