NCCE engages youth groups on violent extremism in Atebubu

The Atebubu-Amantin Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has engaged youth groups in Atebubu under the Preventing and Controlling Violent Extremism Initiative, funded by the European Union.

The event aimed to promote peace, social cohesion, and tolerance among the youth while addressing the risks of violent extremism.

Municipal Director of the NCCE, Mr. Patrick Tampugre, welcomed participants and explained the objectives of the initiative. He emphasized the importance of preventing and containing violent extremism by fostering understanding of peace-building mechanisms, enhancing social cohesion, and implementing community-based strategies to counter radicalization. The engagement encouraged the youth to appreciate the negative consequences of violent extremism and to embrace peaceful solutions.

The meeting focused on several key themes, including peaceful coexistence and interfaith tolerance, the triggers and effects of violent extremism, and the importance of heightened awareness in worship centers and public spaces. Discussions also covered the dangers of online radicalization, misinformation, and disinformation, as well as strategies to resist the lure of extremist groups and respond effectively to violent attacks.

Mr. Emmanuel Nimoh, the Pru East Municipal Director of the NCCE, facilitated the session and highlighted misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and radicalization as significant factors that fuel violence. He explained that marginalization, exclusion, poverty, and a lack of transparency exacerbate these challenges. To counter such issues, he stressed the importance of patriotism, civic responsibility, inclusive values, social recognition, tolerance, and unity in promoting peaceful coexistence and ensuring social cohesion.

Participants, drawn from political parties, keep-fit clubs, trade associations, and development-oriented organizations, actively engaged in practical exercises. These included recognizing signs of radicalization, identifying fake news, strengthening neighborhood watch committees, reducing crime in communities, and fostering factors that contribute to national cohesion.

At the conclusion of the event, the groups presented a communiqué pledging their commitment to maintaining peace before, during, and after the December general elections. This initiative represents a significant effort by the NCCE to equip the youth with the tools and knowledge needed to resist violent extremism and contribute to a more peaceful and united society.