As part of activities to mark International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD) 2025, the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), in collaboration with United Civil Society Organisations for National Development (UCSOND) and through its Local Accountability Network (LANet) in the Nzema East Municipality and supported by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, the EU, and GIZ, engaged students from Saint Augustinus Preparatory School in Axim and Awulae Agyefi Kwame Basic School in Nsein to promote integrity, accountability, and civic responsibility among young people.
The sensitization exercise held on December 9, 2025, aimed to educate students about the meaning of corruption, its impact on society, and the important role young people can play in preventing corrupt practices from an early age.
Addressing the students, the Chairman of LANet Nzema East, Mr. Christian Abomson, emphasized that corruption is not limited to politicians or public officials; it often begins with everyday actions such as cheating, stealing, favouritism, and the abuse of trust. He encouraged students to uphold honesty and integrity in their schools, homes, and communities. A presentation by Mr. Baba Aboubakari Sadick, a member of LANet, explained that corruption can start with small dishonest acts which, if left unchecked, can grow into serious national challenges. He urged students to become “integrity ambassadors” by refusing to cheat in examinations, rejecting bribery, protecting public and school property, and reporting wrongdoing through the appropriate channels. The engagement also introduced students to Ghana’s legal framework for fighting corruption, including the Whistleblower Act, 2006 (Act 720), and the Witness Protection Act, 2018 (Act 975). Facilitators assured students that these laws exist to protect whistleblowers and witnesses, thereby encouraging citizens, young and old, to report corruption without fear.
Students actively participated in discussions, sharing examples of corruption within school environments and proposing ways to promote honesty among their peers. Many expressed excitement and appreciation for the chance to understand corruption better than they do from what they hear on television and social media.
School authorities praised the initiative and commended GACC, UCSOND, and LANet for prioritizing integrity education at the basic school level, noting that early exposure to accountability helps develop disciplined and responsible future leaders. The program also received media coverage, helping to spread the anti-corruption message beyond the school communities.
The Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition, along with UCSOND and LANet Nzema East, reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining anti-corruption education and community involvement across the municipality.
As Ghana joins the global community to observe International Anti-Corruption Day, initiatives like this emphasize the importance of collective action in promoting a culture of transparency and accountability, beginning in the classroom.
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Story by: Ebenezer Atta K Jnr ( LANet Member & Media Personality)