On December 13, 2024, the RTI Officer for the Suhum Municipality hosted a crucial sensitization exercise for workers at St. Theresa Credit Union, focusing on the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2019 (ACT 989). The session aimed to enlighten the credit union staff about their legal right to access public information, a cornerstone of democratic governance. The exercise sought to clarify the importance of the RTI Act in fostering transparency and accountability within both public and private sector institutions.
During the sensitization, participants were educated on the significance of the RTI Act as a tool for promoting open governance and enhancing civic engagement. The session underscored the role of the Act in ensuring that citizens can request and obtain information from public institutions, thereby facilitating informed decision-making and greater participation in societal matters. The staff were also briefed on the procedures for accessing information, making it clear that the process is designed to be transparent, efficient, and responsive to the needs of the public.
The exercise was highly engaging, allowing workers to ask questions and seek further clarification on specific aspects of the RTI Act. Many expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to learn more about how the law can benefit their work environment and their community. With an understanding of their rights to access information, the workers were encouraged to act as ambassadors for the RTI Act, spreading awareness about its significance and helping others navigate the information-request process when needed.
Overall, the sensitization exercise served as an important step in enhancing the knowledge of St. Theresa Credit Union workers regarding the RTI Act. By equipping them with the tools to access public information and advocate for transparency, the session contributed to a greater sense of responsibility and civic participation. The RTI Act stands as a powerful mechanism in the fight for a more accountable and transparent society, and this exercise was a key part of ensuring that more people in the Suhum Municipality are aware of their rights under the law.