The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Ghana, in partnership with the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCSALW), has launched the Sav Schools Outreach Programme at O’Reilly Senior High School in Accra.

The initiative aims to combat rising violence and the proliferation of small arms among students, while empowering young people to become ambassadors of peace and safety in their schools and communities.

Speaking on behalf of the Inspector General of Police on July 10, 2025, ACP Agnes Bordon emphasized the legal restrictions on firearm possession in Ghana and the need for collective action to control the spread of illicit weapons.

She warned that although the law permits firearm ownership under strict conditions, many civilians acquire weapons without fully understanding the legal or societal consequences.

“The proliferation of illicit small arms creates a sense of insecurity, making people feel unsafe in their homes, schools, and communities, which can affect national development,” ACP Bordon said.

She highlighted the psychological trauma associated with gun violence, particularly among juveniles, and urged students to become advocates for non-violence.

ACP Bordon also cautioned that the misuse of firearms carries severe legal consequences, regardless of a person’s age. She called on parents to store legally acquired firearms safely and discouraged children from handling any weapons they may encounter.

Dr. Edward Ampratwum, UNDP Ghana’s Head of Inclusive Growth and Accountable Governance, presented alarming statistics on the prevalence of school violence and gun misuse.

Citing studies, he revealed that 55% of Ghanaian students have experienced physical fights, attacks, or bullying in the past year. Furthermore, a nationwide survey estimated that 2.3 million small and light weapons are in circulation in Ghana, with approximately 1.1 million unaccounted for.

“Behind these statistics lie personal tragedies, disrupted education, and psychological scars,” Dr. Ampratwum stated.

He called for a multi-stakeholder approach to curb violence, including faster legislative reforms on arms control and greater support for the National Commission on Small Arms.

Dr. Ampratwum urged teachers, parents, civil society, and faith-based organizations to promote non-violence, enforce school codes of conduct, and mentor at-risk youth. He stressed that every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment to learn and grow.

The Headmaster of O’Reilly Senior High School, Francis Aniagyei, expressed gratitude for the selection of his school to host the launch, noting its significance as O’Reilly celebrates 100 years of academic excellence.

He reflected on the tragic incident of September 1, 2024, when a student lost their life due to gun violence—a painful reminder of the need for proactive measures.

“Such an incident must never be repeated. We are committed to ensuring that our school becomes a place of peace and positive development,” Aniagyei stated.

He also highlighted the infrastructural and security challenges facing the school, including inadequate facilities and encroachment on school land, which complicate efforts to ensure student safety.

Representing the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Christoph Capelle-Sighiouar underscored the global dimensions of gun violence and the critical role that young people can play in preventing it.

He highlighted the UN Firearms Protocol, which supports international efforts to combat illegal arms trafficking.

“Laws and policies alone are not enough. We need education and advocacy that start in schools and spread across communities,” Capelle-Sighiouar said.

He encouraged students to become champions of peace through education, peer engagement, and the establishment of student-led peace clubs.

One of the key highlights of the event was the inauguration of the Students Against Violence Club at O’Reilly SHS.

The club is intended to provide a platform for students to lead awareness campaigns, promote conflict resolution, and serve as peer advocates for non-violence and responsible behavior.

The Sav Schools Outreach Programme, supported by various partners including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the National Peace Council, and the Ministry of Education, is set to reach over 10,000 students across the country.

The programme aims to instill in young people a culture of peace, safety, and civic responsibility.














AM/KA

GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey