Accra: Some school children engaged by the Local Accountability Network of the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition have expressed worry over persistent corrupt practices by state institutions and individuals in society.
According to Ghana News Agency, the children shared their experiences during this year's engagement by the Local Accountability Network in schools within the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis and Effia Kwesimintsim Municipality. They reported feeling sad when witnessing drivers giving money to uniformed personnel and hearing about parents having to pay large sums for their children's employment in security services. Concerns were also raised about favoritism in schools and the limitations of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) coverage, as hospitals often claim, "This is not covered by NHIS."
The children indicated that corruption might be a significant factor in the lack of streetlights, poor roads, and stalled development projects in their communities. They called on state actors and adults to set better examples for the younger generation to emulate.
The event, supported by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, aimed to mark the 2026 Africa Anti-Corruption Day by promoting integrity and anti-corruption actions across Africa. The schools involved in the engagement included Takoradi Community Development Institute, Bompeh Senior High School, Nana Brempong Yaw Basic, and Reverend Apperky Basic schools.
Mr. Ebo Barker, the Leader of the Network, emphasized the importance of fighting corruption for societal growth and encouraged young people to resist, reject, and report corrupt practices. Mrs. Beauty Emefa Narteh, the Executive Secretary of the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition, through a speech read on her behalf, highlighted the campaign's focus on reaching more students to learn and become champions of integrity. A key feature of this year's celebration was the 'Capture Youth Voices Open Forum' to amplify young people's perspectives on corruption and integrity.
Madam Narteh urged the students to speak out against corruption, emphasizing that their voices, actions, and choices are crucial in driving a more transparent and accountable future.