Peace Council Empowers Teacher Trainees to Combat Violent Extremism

The Upper East Regional Peace Council hosted a sensitization program at St. John Bosco College, focusing on preventing violent extremism. Students learned to counter extremist narratives using comic books as educational tools. The initiative emphasized the critical role of future educators and the importance of community vigilance against illicit activities, with support from international organizations through the UNDP.

The Upper East Regional Peace Council has held a sensitization program at St. John Bosco College of Education in Navrongo, focusing on alternative counter-narratives to prevent violent extremism and hate speech. By utilizing comic books as educational tools, students acquired insights into the tactics used by extremist groups to manipulate vulnerable individuals, empowering them to respond with peaceful and factual counter-narratives.

This program highlighted the dangers of violent extremism and provided students with strategies to resist radicalization. Participants were encouraged to advocate for non-violence and create safe spaces for discussion among peers, transforming grievances into constructive actions that counteract exploitation by extremist groups.

The sensitization was part of the “Sensitization on Alternative Counter-Narratives to Prevent Violent Extremism for Students” initiative, funded through the Atlantic Corridor project by the Norwegian, Australian, German, and Danish governments in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Mr. Ali Anankpieng, the Executive Secretary of the Upper East Regional Peace Council, emphasized the significant role educators play in combating violent extremism. He remarked, “The fight against violent extremism is not just for security agencies; it is a collective responsibility.”

Mr. Victor Abo-Ame Akanbonga from the Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons urged students to report illegal arms possession, as the proliferation of small arms is linked to violence and instability. Deputy Superintendent of Police Kingsley Kanda reinforced the importance of community vigilance, stating that early detection can prevent potential attacks.

Mr. Seth Okang from the Narcotics Control Commission warned students about the legal ramifications of drug use, including imprisonment for offenses relating to illegal substances. Engineer Michael Atayire, the Student Affairs Officer, expressed gratitude to the Peace Council for raising awareness on these crucial issues, noting its potential to foster peace and enhance the academic environment at the school.

The sensitization program conducted by the Upper East Regional Peace Council at St. John Bosco College of Education has successfully equipped teacher trainees with essential tools to counter violent extremism. By educating students on the manipulation used by extremists, encouraging proactive reporting of illicit activities, and emphasizing the importance of community vigilance, the initiative aims to create a peaceful and supportive educational environment. The collaboration with international bodies reflects a significant step towards fostering peace and preventing radicalization in communities.

Original Source: gna.org.gh