Accra, Ghana – May 31, 2024 – Ghanaian students tackled the topic of regional unity, peace, and security during an inter-school debate organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Regional Integration and the ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) secretariat. The event, held on May 31st to commemorate ECOWAS’ 49th anniversary, aimed to engage young minds in critical discussions about the organization’s role in fostering regional stability.
Deputy Minister Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong highlighted the debate’s objective: to spark meaningful dialogue among students about ECOWAS’ contributions. He expressed hope that the event would deepen their understanding of regional integration, its challenges, and potential solutions.
Building on this goal, ECOWAS Resident Representative Ambassador Baba Gana Wakil emphasized the debate’s potential to go beyond academics. He envisioned it as a platform to cultivate a “regional orientation” and understanding of ECOWAS’ peacekeeping efforts. Ambassador Wakil even proposed the creation of “ECOWAS Digital Clubs” in senior high schools to promote awareness of regional peace and security issues, cybersecurity, and data analysis. He stressed that “digital transformation” should not solely focus on economic growth, but also on the critical foundation of regional peace and security.
Ambassador Ramses J. Cleland, Chief Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, applauded the students’ participation, commending their passion, critical thinking, and eloquence. He emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of dialogue and critical thinking among Ghana’s youth.
Accra Girls’ Senior High School emerged victorious in the debate, followed by Nungua Senior High School in second place. Other participating schools included Presbyterian Boys Senior High School, Achimota School, Christian Methodist Senior High School, and Lashibi Community Day Senior High School.
The event also saw the presence of diplomats, ECOWAS representatives, government officials, and Foreign Ministry personnel. All participating schools and students received certificates in recognition of their involvement.
