DELEGATE FROM SOUTH SUDAN VISIT NCCE GHANA

A nine (9) member delegation from South Sudan has visited the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) at the Commission’s head office in Accra. The members are from the National Elections Commission and Political Parties Council in South Sudan.

The Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs at NCCE, Mrs.Joyce Afutu, on behalf of the NCCE, welcomed the team from South Sudan.

The leader of the delegation, Barnaba Mayor Deng stated that their visit was a collaboration of two (2) institutions, the Political Party Council for Registering Political Parties and the National Electoral Commission for conducting elections.

He said as a young country, the team decided to visit countries within the region to gain experience in areas of political party registration and election preparations and planning and Ghana was the first on their list of such countries. He hinted that the country just came out of civil war and is expected to conduct elections in 2023.

NCCE’s Commission Secretary, Mr. Tito Voegborlo gave a brief overview of the work of NCCE explaining the history of Ghana, Democracy Enhancing Institutions such as the NCCE, how it was established, its organogram, thematic areas and flagship programmes. He also explained how civic education is conducted in all the districts throughout the country through mediums like schools, Faith-Based Organisations (FBOs), and Community-Based Organisations (CBOs).

Mr. Tito emphasized that the Commission conducts research to know the concerns of Ghanaians to ensure effective civic education delivery and help the government address these issues. He said, “the goal of civic education must bring development to the people”.

Senior officers at the meeting addressed questions from the delegates such as whether civic education is a one-time event or a continuous process, how the Commission secures funds and the distinct roles of the Electoral Commission of Ghana and NCCE.

The Acting Director, Programmes at NCCE, Dr. Imurana Mohammed said it is crucial for civic education to be conducted by a separate body and not solely the responsibility of the Electoral Commission as a department. He said that throughout the year, even after elections, the citizens need to be educated on issues like tax, citizen participation, holding leadership accountable and bringing lawbreakers to book.

The South Sudan team expressed gratitude as the team was presented with copies of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and other research materials of the NCCE. He said everything they have learnt will be replicated to make their country thrive and welcomed future collaborations.

Ms. Peace Condo, the Director of the Human Resources Department of NCCE gave a closing prayer to end the discussion. Present at the meeting were Mr. Akuamoah, the Deputy Chairman, Operations; Mr. Tito Voegborlo, the Commission Secretary, Directors, some staff and the media.

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