In a concerted effort to enhance transparency and accountability within public institutions, Mr. Solomon Ofosu, the Right to Information (RTI) officer for Denkyembour District Assembly, has been actively conducting awareness sessions across the district. These educational initiatives, particularly focusing on vulnerable groups, underscore the significance of the RTI Act, 2019 (Act 989), in fostering open governance. Most notably, on August 22, 2024, Mr. Ofosu hosted an informative session for persons with disabilities, emphasizing their right to access information and the support available to them under the Act.
The awareness session, held at the Assembly Hall, was tailored to inform participants about the critical provisions of the RTI Act, including the process for requesting information and the specific exceptions to information disclosure. Mr. Ofosu highlighted the importance of these rights in promoting good governance, urging attendees to actively utilize their entitlements. He also noted that reproduction costs are waived for persons with disabilities, making it easier for them to access necessary information. The interactive format of the event encouraged attendees to engage and ask questions, leading to a productive discussion. Participants expressed a strong desire for regular educational events to keep stakeholders informed about their rights under the RTI law.
Following this initiative, on September 4, 2024, Mr. Ofosu shifted focus to staff of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in Akwatia. This session was designed to deepen their understanding of the RTI Act and its vital role in promoting transparency within the health sector. The RTI officer provided a comprehensive overview of the Act’s objectives, procedures for information requests, and the timelines for responses. With a Q&A segment included, NHIS staff were able to clarify their doubts, resulting in a heightened awareness of their obligations under the Act. The positive feedback from this session indicated a strong need for ongoing education to ensure compliance and enhance the scheme’s transparency.
Continuing his mission, Mr. Ofosu conducted another session on September 9, 2024, for staff of the Electricity Company of Ghana in Akwatia. The workshop aimed to familiarize them with the RTI Act and its relevance in promoting accountability within the district’s public service. Through an in-depth exploration of the Act’s key provisions and information access processes, Mr. Ofosu reinforced the necessity for compliance among utility providers. The interactive discussion allowed staff members to engage actively and address their concerns. The success of these educational efforts highlights the importance of regular training sessions, ensuring that public servants remain well-informed about the RTI Act and its critical role in fostering open governance across Denkyembour District.
