NCCE Asante Akim South Municipal Directorate Sensitises Apprentices on Gender-Based Violence and Reporting Mechanisms

Apprentices and workers at AngieMens Décor at Juaso Junction have been urged to recognise the warning signs of gender-based violence (GBV) and report abuse rather than remain silent for fear of stigma. The appeal came during a public education engagement by the Asante Akim South Municipal Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), aimed at strengthening awareness of abuse, personal safety and avenues for seeking help.

Leading the discussion, Assistant Director Patrick Asare explained that gender-based violence can take different forms, including physical, sexual, psychological or emotional, socioeconomic and technology-facilitated abuse. He noted that women, men, girls and boys can experience violence, and encouraged participants to understand that harmful conduct should not be excused simply because it occurs within an intimate relationship.

Mr. Asare described physical violence as acts intended to inflict pain or injury, citing hitting, slapping, beating, strangulation and attacks involving hot liquids or corrosive substances. Such acts, he explained, can cause lasting physical harm and should never be treated as acceptable ways to resolve disagreements between partners.

Turning to sexual violence, he emphasised that consent is essential in all intimate relationships. Forcing or pressuring a partner into sexual activity, regardless of whether the individuals are married or in a relationship, constitutes abuse. He cautioned participants against assuming that being in a relationship gives anyone an entitlement to another person's body.

The discussion also addressed psychological and emotional abuse, as well as intimidation through digital platforms. Mr. Asare drew attention to the use of social media and messaging services, including Facebook and WhatsApp, to threaten, harass, humiliate or insult a partner. Such behaviour, he indicated, can undermine a person's dignity and sense of security even when no physical assault occurs.

Speaking to the apprentices, the proprietor of AngieMens Décor, Madam Angela Mensah, advised them to be attentive to troubling behaviour in relationships and to avoid dismissing early warning signs. She encouraged them to prioritise their safety and make informed decisions when confronted with intimidation, coercion or other abusive conduct.

Concluding the engagement, Mr. Asare urged anyone experiencing or witnessing abuse to seek assistance and resist the pressure to remain silent because of possible stigma. He identified the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), and Social Welfare as institutions through which cases may be reported or support sought.

The visit reinforced the need to take public education on gender-based violence into workplaces and apprenticeship settings, where open discussions can help people recognise abuse, support affected individuals and respond before harm escalates.