On October 22, 2024, a comprehensive sensitization program on the Right to Information (RTI) Act 2019 (Act 989) took place at the Police Depot Training School, Tesano, targeting students and staff at the Police Depot No. 1 & 2 Junior High School. 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 the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and Sophia Akwaah Asiamah from the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council.
The purpose of the sensitization program was to raise awareness of the RTI Act and its significance in ensuring transparency and accountability within public institutions. The program aimed to educate both pupils and staff about their rights under the RTI Act and how they could utilize the law to request information from public and recognized private institutions. Emphasizing the importance of an informed and engaged citizenry, the session sought to instill a culture of active participation in democratic processes.
The program featured several educational sessions and interactive components, providing a detailed overview of the RTI Act. Key topics covered included the process for making information requests, the purpose of the RTI Act in promoting government transparency, and real-life examples of how the RTI has been used to improve public services. The program also featured a role-playing activity where students simulated requesting information from a local government body, enhancing their understanding of how the RTI request process works in practice.
The session concluded with a vibrant question-and-answer segment, where students and staff were encouraged to engage with the facilitators. Many expressed newfound knowledge and appreciation for their right to access information. Feedback from participants indicated that the program was both informative and engaging, with students showing an increased sense of civic responsibility. The success of the sensitization program at Police Depot No. 1 & 2 J.H.S School highlighted the importance of promoting transparency and accountability in governance. It is hoped that similar programs will be conducted in other schools to further spread awareness of the RTI Act and empower the younger generation.
