NCCE Sensitizes First-Year Students of EFFISCO on Rights and Responsibilities

The Sekyere East District Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has sensitised first-year students of Effiduase Senior High Commercial School (EFFISCO) on their rights, responsibilities and the importance of good citizenship. Organised as part of the school’s first-year orientation programme, the engagement sought to deepen students’ understanding of responsible citizenship, with particular emphasis on Article 41 of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana.

Addressing the students, the Sekyere East District Director of the NCCE, Mr. Boahene, emphasised that every citizen has a role to play in building a peaceful, responsible and progressive nation. He explained that citizenship goes beyond merely being Ghanaian, as it also requires individuals to understand their rights, fulfil their civic responsibilities, respect the rights of others and contribute positively to society. He further educated the students on fundamental human rights, including the rights to life, dignity, education and freedom of expression, while stressing the importance of maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment.

Mr. Boahene noted that the enjoyment of rights must be accompanied by respect for the rights and freedoms of others. He therefore encouraged the students to strike a balance between exercising their rights and fulfilling their responsibilities to promote peace, tolerance and harmonious coexistence. Highlighting some of the duties expected of responsible citizens, he urged the students to respect teachers, parents, school authorities and fellow students, obey lawful rules and regulations, protect public property, maintain discipline and contribute positively to their communities.

The District Director further encouraged the students to demonstrate responsible citizenship through their daily conduct, including keeping their surroundings clean, adhering to school rules, treating others fairly, protecting school property and taking their studies seriously. He also highlighted honesty, discipline, respect, tolerance, patriotism, hard work, peaceful coexistence, and a strong sense of responsibility as essential values that should guide their behaviour both within and outside the school environment.

Mr. Boahene reminded the students that young people are not only leaders of tomorrow but also citizens of today, with an important role to play in national development. He encouraged them to cultivate responsible habits while in school to prepare themselves to become adults who respect the rule of law, protect national resources, promote peace and participate meaningfully in community development. The engagement concluded with a call on the students to translate their understanding of citizenship into practical actions that reflect patriotism, respect for others, and commitment to national development, reinforcing the message that building a better Ghana begins with responsible citizenship.