Kenten Holy Family R/C JHS learners challenged to speak up against corruption

In commemoration of this year’s African Union Anti-Corruption Day, the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), in partnership with the Hewlett Foundation, organized a sensitization campaign for the Kenten Holy Family R/C JHS.

The event, which took place on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at the school’s premises, was facilitated by the Executive Director of the Centre of Posterity Interest Organization (COPIO), Mr. Mustapha Maison Yeboah. It was held under the theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” with the aim of empowering learners to understand and actively combat corruption through whistleblowing and civic engagement.

During his presentation, Mr. Yeboah Maison introduced the learners to the concepts of corruption, whistleblowing, and the importance of integrity. He broke down the key elements of the Whistleblower Act (Act 720) and the Witness Protection Act (Act 975), emphasizing that young people are not too young to make a difference.

He encouraged them to speak up when they observe any wrongdoing and to use social media responsibly to demand transparency and accountability, urging them to become ambassadors of integrity in their communities. “You are not too young to make a difference, say something when you see something wrong,” he stressed.

The Executive Secretary of the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), Mrs. Beauty Emefa Narteh, as part of this year’s celebrations, delivered a powerful message urging bold, inclusive, and united efforts to fight corruption across Africa, while emphasizing the critical role of young people in this fight.

In her remarks, Mrs. Narteh highlighted the devastating impact of corruption on national development and the lives of ordinary citizens. She cited the 2023 Auditor-General’s Report, which revealed that Ghana lost over GH¢11 billion to financial irregularities, noting that such funds could have significantly improved education, healthcare, and job creation.

“The 2025 African Union Anti-Corruption Day renews the call for bold, inclusive, and united action to tackle the persistent scourge of corruption in Africa. Corruption continues to undermine our development, deepen inequality, and erode public trust in institutions. In Ghana, the cost is undeniable. The 2023 Auditor-General’s Report revealed that the country lost over GH¢11 billion to financial irregularities, resources that could have transformed education, healthcare, and job opportunities for its citizens.” She stated

According to her young people are disproportionately affected by corruption. However, she expressed hope, emphasizing the transformative potential of youth in the fight against corruption.

“But it is our young people who often bear the harshest consequences. Corruption disrupts access to quality education, reduces job prospects, limits opportunities, and undermines trust in public systems. These realities make it more difficult for young people to envision a future built on fairness and integrity. And yet, it is these same young people who hold the power to change the narrative.” She said.

The event at Kenten Holy Family R/C JHS was a resounding success, with an overwhelmingly positive response from participants. A total of 254 learners took part, many of whom asked thought-provoking questions and shared personal insights during the interactive discussions and quizzes.

Source: Ghanaweb.mobi