On 29th October 2024, City Secondary Business College School in Caprice hosted an engaging sensitization program aimed at raising awareness about the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2019 (Act 989). The event was organized by a team of RTI Officers from various sub-metros, including Ransford Adu Acheampong from Okaikoi South Sub-Metro, Emmanuel Attoh Kofi Armah from Ablekuma South Sub-Metro, Priscilla Lartey from Ashiedu Keteke Sub-Metro, Helen Quartey from Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and Sophia Akwaah Asiamah from the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council. The session aimed to inform the students and staff about the RTI Act and its critical role in promoting transparency and accountability in public and private institutions.
The primary objectives of the session were to educate students and teachers about their rights under the RTI Act, explain how to request information from public institutions, and encourage active participation in democratic processes. The RTI Act empowers citizens to access information held by public institutions and certain private entities, promoting an open and accountable governance system. By engaging students in this dialogue, the program aimed to foster a culture of transparency that is essential for informed civic participation.
The session was both informative and interactive, with key topics such as the purpose of the RTI Act, its benefits, and how citizens can request information. The RTI Officers provided detailed explanations of the process for making information requests and the legal framework that ensures citizens’ access to public data. Real-life examples were shared to demonstrate how the RTI Act has been used effectively to improve transparency and accountability in various sectors, further illustrating the tangible benefits of the law.
To ensure maximum engagement, the session included a variety of interactive activities. Students and staff participated in a lively question-and-answer session, where they asked about the RTI’s practical applications and how it can help improve transparency within their community. A role-playing activity allowed students to simulate requesting information from local government institutions, providing them with a hands-on understanding of the RTI process. The session concluded with a feedback segment, where participants expressed their newfound appreciation for the RTI Act and its role in promoting good governance.
The RTI sensitization program at City Secondary Business College School was a resounding success, with students gaining a deeper understanding of their rights and responsibilities as citizens. Key outcomes included heightened awareness of the RTI Act, empowerment to engage in transparency efforts, and a stronger sense of civic responsibility. The program successfully demonstrated how access to information can be a powerful tool in fostering accountability and encouraging active, informed participation in governance. Special thanks were extended to the school management, Adams Bawa (Municipal Information Officer at Accra Metropolitan Assembly), and the team of RTI Officers for their contributions to this impactful educational initiative.
