The Right to Information Unit of the Information Services Department, in collaboration with the National Commission for Civic Education, organized a sensitization program at Goaso Nursing and Midwifery Training College, addressing the Right to Information (RTI) Law and security issues.
The program took place at the school’s Great Hall. It featured notable speakers, including Mr. Theophilus Nti-Antwi, the RTI Officer, and three officers from the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE): Mr. Anyormi Eric, Assistant Director of NCCE Ahafo Region; Ms. Ellen Lokko, Assistant Civic Education Officer; and Mr. Harris Quansah, Regional Internal Auditor of NCCE.
During the program, the NCCE officials discussed security issues in the country. They commended the efforts of Ghana’s security officers in protecting lives and stressed the importance of vigilance among students. They advised the audience to be cautious and alert when encountering individuals exhibiting suspicious behavior and to report such instances to the police promptly. The key message emphasized the idea that “when you see something, say something.”
Following the security discussion, Mr. Theophilus Nti-Antwi, the RTI Officer, began his presentation on the RTI Law. He explained the process by which the law was passed and underscored that every individual has the right to request information from all public institutions and relevant private organizations. This can be done by submitting a written request or by using a template form provided by the RTI Unit. Mr. Nti-Antwi emphasized that information does not belong to any individual; it is a public resource accessible to everyone, irrespective of age, nationality, or status, in accordance with Article 21 of the 1992 constitution. He also highlighted exemptions as outlined in the Act.
The RTI Officer enlightened the students about the significance of the RTI Law. He stated that the Act enables individuals to access information from public and relevant private bodies, furthering transparency and accountability in the nation. He concluded his presentation by encouraging all individuals, whether citizens or foreigners, to reach out to him or other nearby information offices for inquiries and assistance. The program aimed to provide students with knowledge about their rights under the RTI Law and to raise awareness about security issues in the community.
