In a proactive response to the growing concerns about terrorism in Ghana, the Northern Regional Cadet Corps (NRCC), with support from the regional office for National Security, embarked on a crucial mission to some selected schools in the Tamale Metropolis on November 24, 2023, aiming to sensitize students to the imperative campaign “If You See Something, Say Something,” a campaign that encourages individuals to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly.
The Cadet Corps, known for its commitment to instilling discipline and patriotism in the youth, engaged students of Dabokpa Technical Institute, Vittin SHS, and Ambariya SHS in interactive sessions that shed light on the importance of heightened vigilance in safeguarding national security. With real-life examples and insightful discussions, the Regional Cadet Coordinator, Cdt. Capt. (Dr.) Ismail Attah Ibrahim, emphasized that national security is a collective responsibility and that every citizen plays a vital role in maintaining a secure environment. While speaking about the national toll-free emergency contact 999, which serves as a direct and accessible channel for citizens to report concerns swiftly, the Cadet Coordinator also assured the anonymity offered by the toll-free contact and encouraged the students to be fearless in providing valuable information that could be pivotal in preventing or addressing security issues. He however cautioned them to desist from making prank call or triggering false alarms.
The Regional Security Liaison Officer (RSLO), Col. Sadick Mohammed (Rtd), together with Mr. Daniel Asare, a representative from the Regional Office for National Security, collectively spoke on the dangers of terrorist indoctrination and how these organizations often prey on vulnerable individuals, exploiting grievances and ideological vulnerabilities, and sometimes employing the use of cash tokens to lure and recruit new members. The RSLO emphasized the importance of critical thinking as a shield against radical ideologies and how students can use their ‘sharp minds’ to not only protect themselves but also contribute to a more vigilant and aware community.
The visiting team encouraged an open dialogue at the tail end of the sessions, urging students to express any concerns or queries they might have regarding the national security campaign.
The headmasters of the visited schools expressed gratitude towards the team for their proactive measures in addressing a critical issue that is of interest to the nation and promised to continuously remind the students of the campaign.
As the volunteer youth group continues its mission to raise awareness about national security, the Coordinator for the Northern Region, Cdt. Capt. (Dr.) Ismail Attah Ibrahim, reveals plans to visit more schools in the coming months. “This is the first phase of the sensitization exercise. We plan to visit more schools in the region when school resumes in 2024. Our hope is for these students themselves to become ambassadors of the campaign, so that the ripple effect of these school visits will extend beyond the classroom walls”, he said.
Through these efforts, the Cadet Corps is not only sensitizing young citizens but also setting an inspiring example for other youth groups and stakeholders across the region.
BY : Cdt. Capt. (Dr.) Ismail Attah