The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, in collaboration with the Access to Information (ATI) Division of the Ministry of Information, successfully hosted a two-day training program from August 27 to 28,2024 aimed at bolstering staff understanding of the Right to Information (RTI) Law, Act 989. The training, held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Accra, gathered 23 staff members alongside a team of four expert resource persons from the ATI Division.
The primary objective of this initiative was to equip public servants with the essential knowledge and skills to manage RTI requests efficiently, while fostering a culture of transparency and accountability within public institutions. The opening session, led by the Acting Chief Director and the Acting Director of Policy Planning, Budgeting, Monitoring, and Evaluation (PPBME), underscored the RTI Law’s vital role in strengthening democratic governance. They affirmed that the law empowers citizens by ensuring their right to access public information and participate meaningfully in decision-making processes.
Throughout the first day, participants delved into significant aspects of the RTI Act, including the rights of citizens to access information, public institutions’ obligations, and the steps required to submit and process RTI requests. An essential highlight of the session was the introduction to the compilation and publication of information manuals, which are crucial for facilitating accessible information. Participants also explored the law’s exemptions, designed to protect sensitive information concerning national security and personal privacy.

The second day emphasized practical application procedures for accessing information. Staff were trained on completing the RTI application form, learning to document necessary details such as the applicant’s identification and the specifics of the requested information. This hands-on training ensured participants could effectively assist the public in navigating the application process. The program concluded with a knowledge assessment quiz, followed by closing remarks from the RTI Officer who expressed gratitude to both resource persons and attendees for their enthusiastic engagement in promoting governance transparency.
This training marks a significant commitment from the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs to enhance governance through the effective application of the RTI Law. By empowering staff with the necessary tools and insights, the Ministry aims to improve RTI request processes, cultivate greater accountability, and nurture a more informed, participatory citizenry. The initiative also serves as a strong reminder of the crucial role public institutions play in sustaining trust and transparency between the government and the citizens it serves.