NCCE EDUCATES KPANDO KONDA JHS CIVIC EDUCATION CLUB ON ONLINE SEXUAL ABUSE AND RESPONSIBLE CITIZENSHIP

The Kpando Office of the National Commission for Civic Education has stepped up its civic education efforts in the Municipality by organising a sensitisation programme for members of the Civic Education Club (CEC) of Kpando Konda Junior High School, focusing on online sexual abuse and responsible citizenship.

The engagement was led by Madam Ruth Ilupeju of the NCCE Kpando Municipal Office, with support from Mr. Samuel Fenu, as part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to educate young people on emerging social issues that affect their safety, well-being, and moral development. The programme also sought to deepen the pupils’ understanding of their civic responsibilities and the importance of cultivating attitudes and behaviours that would make them responsible members of society.

Addressing the club members, Madam Ilupeju explained that online sexual abuse has become a growing concern, particularly among children and adolescents who use mobile phones, social media, and other internet-enabled devices without fully appreciating the dangers that exist in digital spaces. She noted that although online platforms can support learning, communication, and creativity, they can also expose children to manipulation, exploitation, and abuse when used carelessly or without proper guidance.

She took the pupils through some of the ways online sexual abuse can occur, including the sharing of inappropriate images, sexual messages, online grooming by strangers, coercion, and other forms of exploitation targeted at children through digital platforms. She therefore advised them to be very careful about the kind of pictures, information, and messages they share online. She also cautioned them never to respond to strangers who attempt to lure them into secrecy or make requests that cause discomfort or fear.

Madam Ilupeju further encouraged the pupils to report any disturbing or abusive online encounter to their parents, teachers, or any trusted adult without fear or shame. According to her, speaking up early can help protect victims and prevent further harm. She stressed that children must understand that their safety is important and that seeking help in situations of abuse is both wise and courageous.

In addition to the discussion on online safety, Madam Ilupeju educated the pupils on the importance of being good and responsible citizens. She explained that responsible citizenship begins with discipline, honesty, obedience, respect for authority, and consideration for the rights and well-being of others. She told the pupils that the values they develop during their school years would greatly influence the kind of adults and leaders they would become in the future.

She urged members of the Civic Education Club to take their studies seriously, respect their teachers and parents, avoid bad company, and conduct themselves in ways that would bring honour to their families, school, and community. She noted that every child has a role to play in national development and that responsible behaviour at a young age lays a strong foundation for good citizenship in later life. The interaction also gave the pupils the opportunity to ask questions and gain a better understanding of how to stay safe online while growing into disciplined and responsible citizens.

Madam Ilupeju also reminded the pupils that citizenship is not only about enjoying rights and freedoms, but also about accepting responsibilities and making positive contributions to society. She encouraged them to be truthful, law-abiding, and self-disciplined, and to use the knowledge gained through the Civic Education Club to influence their peers positively and promote good behaviour within the school environment.

The National Commission for Civic Education continues to engage schools, youth groups, and communities through civic education programmes aimed at promoting awareness, moral values, responsible citizenship, and the protection of children from social and digital threats.