NCCE, ASUDEV Sensitize Pupils in Border Communities on Preventing Violent Extremism

Pupils in ten border communities within the municipality have been sensitized on preventing violent extremism through a collaborative initiative between the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) Municipal Office and Action for Sustainable Development (ASUDEV), with funding support from ActionAid Ghana.

The education campaign was aimed at raising awareness among school children on the growing threat of violent extremism and equipping them with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves from recruitment and other dangers associated with extremist groups.

Addressing the pupils, the Municipal Director of the NCCE, Mr. Hussein Elyasu, assisted by Civic Education Officer (CEO), Mr. Anzunna Cajetan, educated them on the concept of violent extremism, the methods used by extremist groups to recruit vulnerable persons, the signs of radicalization, available reporting channels, and practical measures they could adopt to safeguard themselves.

The facilitators explained that one of the common tactics employed by violent extremist groups is abduction. They noted that many pupils in the border communities are particularly vulnerable because they travel long distances on foot to and from school, with some attending schools located in neighboring communities. This situation, they stressed, increases the risk of exposure to criminal and extremist activities.

Providing an overview of the project, the Program Officer of ASUDEV, Mr. Abraham Siegnye, urged the pupils to remain vigilant in their daily activities. He cautioned them against disclosing personal information to strangers and advised them to promptly report suspicious persons or unusual activities to their teachers, parents, community leaders, or the appropriate security agencies.

The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts by the NCCE and its partners to strengthen community resilience against violent extremism through civic education. It also sought to empower pupils to become vigilant, responsible citizens capable of recognizing and reporting potential threats while contributing to peace, security, and national development.