Ashanti Regional Peace Council, Small Arms Commission, partner to promote peace among students in Adum

The Ashanti Regional Peace Council, in collaboration with the Small Arms Commission, has intensified efforts to promote a culture of peace among the youth by organising a Peace Education and Sensitisation Programme for students of Adum Presbyterian Primary School in Kumasi.

The programme formed part of the Council's broader strategy to nurture peaceful coexistence, prevent violence, and educate young people on the dangers associated with small arms and light weapons.

The programme sought to equip students with knowledge and skills in conflict prevention, non-violent conflict resolution, and responsible citizenship. It also supports the Regional Peace Council's initiative to establish Peace Ambassadors Clubs in Junior and Senior High Schools across the Ashanti Region.

Speaking at the event, the Senior Programmes Manager of the Ashanti Regional Peace Council, Mr Godwin Nana Amponsah, expressed concern over the increasing incidence of bullying, fighting, threats, insults, and vandalism in schools.

He stated that such behaviours threaten the peaceful learning environment required for students to thrive academically and socially.

Mr Amponsah encouraged students to adopt dialogue, patience, tolerance, self-control, and mutual respect in resolving disagreements, stressing that peaceful engagement remains the most effective way to address conflicts.

He also urged students to channel their grievances through teachers and school authorities rather than resorting to violence.

The Ashanti Regional Director of the Small Arms Commission, Mr Emmanuel Kenneth Oduro, educated participants on the dangers posed by the proliferation of illicit firearms.

He warned that the presence of illegal weapons in schools endangers students, teachers, and surrounding communities, often leading to injuries, loss of life, arrests, expulsions, and other long-term consequences.

He reminded students that the unlawful possession or use of firearms is a criminal offence under Ghanaian law and encouraged them to report any suspected possession or movement of illegal weapons to the appropriate authorities to help safeguard their schools and communities.

Students were taken through practical lessons on peaceful conflict resolution, the risks associated with small arms and light weapons, and the important role they can play as ambassadors of peace in their schools and communities.

The event brought together more than 350 students, teachers, and school administrators.