The Deputy Minister for Education, Dr Clement Apaak, has stated that enhance school education, improve community education and strengthen family education are key to enhance youth discipline in the country.
Addressing a gathering to the commemorate Africa Union Day at the Liberation Circle Roundabout, Ridge – Accra, under the theme “Discipline And Loyalty Among The Youth: Reflect, Review, And Reset”, Dr Apaak stated that the National Cadet Corps’ initiative to commemorate this day is commendable, demonstrating your commitment to Pan-Africanism.
Commenting on the move to enhance discipline and loyalty among the youth, Dr. Apaak stated that families are the first school for children.
He explained that parents should consciously learn parenting knowledge, improve their educational skills, and prioritize the cultivation of discipline and moral values in their children.
“By setting a positive example, parents can guide their children to develop good habits and a strong sense of discipline. Additionally, parents should strengthen communication with their children, understand their thoughts and needs, and provide timely guidance and support”, Dr Apaak stated.
He indicated that communities should leverage their resources to create a positive environment for youth development.
The deputy minister for education, added that community leaders can organize diverse activities, such as community service and volunteer work, to encourage youth participation and foster a sense of responsibility and loyalty to society.
“Traditional leaders and elders should also actively engage in youth mentorship, imparting cultural values and moral principles to help youth develop a strong sense of discipline and belonging.
“Schools bear the critical responsibility of fostering discipline and loyalty among students.
The Minister of Education has hinted on a curriculum review to integrate discipline and loyalty education into the curriculum, using various teaching methods such as classroom instruction, extracurricular activities, and practical experiences to help students understand and internalize these values”, Dr Apaak stated.
He continued: “The Ghana Education Service has tasked schools to establish sound disciplinary systems and regulations, strictly enforcing them to cultivate students’ self-discipline.
The Guidance and Counselling Unit of GES in collaboration with National Teaching Council has developed an online training model for teachers to strengthen and improve their awareness of discipline and loyalty education, enabling them to serve as role models for students and provide effective guidance.
“Initiatives such as the recently announced military training component in the National Service Authority aim to complement formal education by reinforcing essential values like time management, leadership, and civic duty.”