Bodi NCCE and GES Educate Amoaya SHS Students on Sexual Harassment and Reporting Mechanisms

A safe school is one where every learner can study without fear of harassment. This message guided a joint sensitisation programme by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Bodi District Office, and the Ghana Education Service (GES) District Directorate at Amoaya Senior High School.

The engagement brought students and staff together to examine sexual harassment, recognise its different forms and understand the procedures available for reporting abuse and seeking support.

Bodi District Director of NCCE, Mr. Emmanuel Awotwe, described sexual harassment as unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that leaves a person feeling uncomfortable, intimidated or unsafe. He explained that such behaviour can occur in classrooms, on school grounds and through digital platforms.

Using practical examples, Mr. Awotwe outlined verbal harassment, including sexual remarks, jokes and threats; non-verbal conduct, such as offensive gestures; and physical harassment involving unwanted touching. He also discussed demands for sexual favours in exchange for grades or opportunities, alongside online harassment and the sharing of explicit messages.

He stressed that sexual harassment must not be tolerated and urged students to respect personal boundaries and reject conduct that violates the dignity of others.

On reporting procedures, Mr. Awotwe encouraged affected persons and witnesses to approach trusted teachers, the school's guidance and counselling unit, or school authorities. He also identified the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) as avenues for assistance, alongside other appropriate institutions.

Participants were advised to preserve relevant evidence, seek counselling where needed, and support those who disclose abuse rather than blame or isolate them.

Representatives of the GES District Directorate welcomed the initiative and encouraged students to apply the lessons to help maintain a respectful learning environment. Students and staff expressed appreciation for the engagement and its relevance to their safety.

During an interactive discussion, learners sought clarification on confidential reporting and how complaints could be handled appropriately.

The NCCE and GES reaffirmed their commitment to continued school-based education across the Bodi District, underscoring that preventing harassment requires awareness, responsible behaviour, and accessible reporting channels.