The National Peace Council of Ghana has emphasized the need for greater investment in the education of young people to promote peace and prevent violence in the country. According to the Council, empowering young people to become "everyday architects of peace" is crucial to securing peace for everyone, everywhere, every day. This call was made during a 4.2-kilometre Peace Walk through Accra to commemorate the 2026 International Day of Peace.
The Peace Walk, which took place on September 26, brought together students from several schools, including La Presec, Accra High School, and Labone Senior High School, alongside peacebuilders and partner institutions. The event culminated in a gala at the Accra High School field. The walk traced a route through various parts of Accra, including Maamobi, Kawukudi, and Nima, before ending at Accra High School. This initiative was part of the Council's efforts to build a Ghana where differences do not divide people and conflicts are managed through dialogue rather than violence.
The event was held under the United Nations' 2026 global theme, "Invest in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day," and the National Peace Council's national theme, "Shaping Minds, Securing Peace: Educating Youth Against Violence." The Director of Capacity Development and Outreach at the National Peace Council, Janet Sarney-Kuma, delivered the welcome address on behalf of the Council. She highlighted the importance of educating young people to promote peace and prevent violence.
According to Madam Sarney-Kuma, investing in young people's education, tolerance, critical thinking, and capacity is crucial to promoting peace and preventing violence. She noted that young people should be empowered to become agents of peace rather than participants in violence. The National Peace Council believes that this can be achieved by shaping the minds of young people and educating them against violence.
The National Peace Council's initiative is part of a broader effort to promote peace and stability in Ghana. The Council has been working with various stakeholders, including schools, community groups, and partner institutions, to promote peace and prevent violence. The Peace Walk and gala were part of these efforts, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of peace and stability in the country.
The event saw participation from various stakeholders, including students, peacebuilders, and partner institutions. The National Peace Council's efforts have been recognized by various organizations, including the United Nations. The Council's initiative is also in line with the Ghanaian government's efforts to promote peace and stability in the country.
The National Peace Council's call for greater investment in youth education to promote peace and prevent violence is a timely one. With Ghana facing various challenges, including economic and social issues, promoting peace and stability is crucial for the country's development. The Council's initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of investing in young people to build a more peaceful and stable society.
Key points
- The National Peace Council of Ghana is calling for greater investment in youth education to promote peace and prevent violence.
- The Council's initiative is part of the United Nations' 2026 global theme, "Invest in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day."
- The event saw participation from various stakeholders, including students, peacebuilders, and partner institutions.