Locations‘SAV Schools’ Outreach Programme Launched to Tackle Violence and Gun Misuse in Ghana Senior High Schools
July 15, 2025
Group picture of the executives of the newly launched SAV school outreach programme
The surge of violence across Ghana’s senior high schools have thrust campus safety into national spotlight. From persistent bullying to weapons, including armed attacks, continue to pose threats to students, teachers, and administrators, particularly in already vulnerable communities.
In response to this pressing issue, the United Nations Development Programme, Ghana, under the SALIENT Fund, in collaboration with implementing partners, launched a Students Against Violence "SAV Schools" Outreach Programme on Thursday, 10 July 2025, at O’Reilly Senior High School in Accra. The SAV Schools programme aims to prevent violence and misuse of firearms among young people through civic education, youth-led advocacy, and the formation of peace clubs in senior high schools across all the 16 regions of Ghana.
Dr. Edward Ampratwum, Head of Inclusive Growth and Accountable Governance in his remarks, emphasized the urgency and scope of the initiative, stating that, “UNDP Ghana together with United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, National Peace Council, Ghana, United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) Ghana, and other partners, is intensifying efforts to address both school violence and gun misuse through multi-pronged approaches beginning with the launch of this nationwide sensitization campaign in senior high schools across all 16 regions of Ghana. The implementation of this school outreach program is expected to reach over 10,000 students across the country. Together, we’re supporting this noble initiative to stop violence in our schools and build a peaceful and prosperous Ghana that our youth and future rightfully deserve.”
Edward Ampratwum, Head of Inclusive Growth and Accountable Governance, delivering his speech at the launch of the SAV school outreach programme.
Representing the Minister for Education, the Deputy Director of the Ghana Education Service, Dr. Munawaru Issahaque, spoke passionately about the responsibility of all stakeholders in ensuring school safety. “No child should ever have to learn in fear, and no parent should worry if their child will come home safely. No teacher has to choose between teaching and protecting their students from the dangers of small arms. Progress and change are attainable, and it starts with all of us. We are here to ensure that we do not only learn, but we take on the campaign and share with others as voices that can shape attitudes, challenge the status quo and inspire action”, Dr. Issahaque said.
Dr. Munawaru Issahaque, Deputy Director GES, giving his remarks at the launch of the SAV schools outreach programme
Christoph Capelle-Sghiouar, Officer-in-Charge at UNODC Ghana, noted that the programme is more than a project—it is a youth-driven national movement. “I want to thank UNDP Ghana, and all implementing partners for being part of this journey towards a safer and more just society, free from gun violence. Today’s launch is not just another project, but a nationwide movement led by young people against the illegal use of firearms. Together, we can build a future where every child feels safe in their schools, and every citizen feels safe in their home.”
Christoph Capelle-Sghiouar, Officer-in-Charge at UNODC Ghana at the launch of the SAV school outreach.
On behalf of the Inspector General of the Ghana Police Service, ACP Agnes Bordon, highlighted the importance of public vigilance and youth awareness, noting that “The abuse of small arms among the youth of today is a critical issue that has a negative impact on their growth and development as well as the country.” She called on the public to help the police by “seeing something and saying something.”
ACP Agnes Bordon at the launch of the SAV school outreach programme
A highlight of the event was the inauguration of thirteen (13) students, and two (2) teachers as pioneers of the Students Against Violence (SAV) Club for O’Reilly Senior High School. The students solemnly pledged to act as peace ambassadors within their schools and neighborhoods, vowing to elevate peace from a mere concept to a daily practice and guiding principle.
In the months ahead, the SAV Schools Outreach Programme will be rolled out to other senior high schools across the country. Anchored in awareness campaigns, peace education, and youth empowerment, the programme seeks to cultivate a student cohort that reject violence and actively contribute to the peace and safety of their schools and surrounding communities. UNDP Ghana and its partners remain committed to tackling the root causes of violence and creating an environment where every child can learn and thrive in peace.
Group picture of partners and participants at the launch of the SAV school outreach programme
