Ghana’s declining ranking in the Global Peace Index (GPI) has prompted the Universal Friendship Organisation (UFO) to launch a new initiative aimed at establishing peace clubs in schools across the country.
The move aims to promote peace, unity, and friendship among students, fostering a culture of peace and contributing to Ghana’s global peace ranking.
The UFO Clubs seek to champion peace and development by uniting students across different levels of education. The clubs comprise students from Junior High (Pioneers), Senior High (Champions), and Tertiary (Scholars) levels, aiming to develop leadership, community service, and intercultural understanding.
The clubs’ vision is to be a leading force for unity and sustainable development where friendship and collaboration empower communities.
The UFO Clubs have four key objectives: to promote unity, inclusiveness, and civic responsibility; implement community projects aligned with national development priorities; partner with stakeholders to drive social impact; and provide platforms for youth development, dialogue, and innovation.
The clubs are built on five pillars: Education, Health, Agriculture, Intercultural Relations, and Peace and Security.
The inauguration ceremony of the UFO Clubs committee was held at the Accra City Hotel, with esteemed guests in attendance, including Justine Akpene Egbenya, President of the AGVO Coalition, who served as the guest speaker.
The President of Universal Friendship Organisation, Mr. Samuel Adobah, urged the clubs committee to work together with school management to establish peace clubs in various academic institutions for the betterment of Ghana’s peace. He emphasized that peace-building is an essential element that brings development to every nation.
Justine Akpene Egbenya, in her capacity as guest speaker, likely highlighted the importance of peace-building initiatives, particularly among the youth. As President of the AGVO Coalition, her presence underscored the significance of collaborative efforts in promoting peace and development.
The 11-member clubs committee is made up of students from the University of Ghana, University of Media Arts and Communications, Westend University College, and Multimedia Institute of Ghana. The President of UFO Clubs, Mr. Mustapha Hamidu, assured that the committee will work hard to establish the clubs in all schools.
By joining the UFO Clubs, members can expect to gain leadership and project management skills, peer mentoring, career guidance, and academic support. They will also have opportunities for intercultural exchanges, health outreach, and community service, as well as recognition, networking, and potential scholarships.
In conclusion, the establishment of peace clubs in schools by UFO aims to empower the next generation with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to build a more peaceful Ghana. This initiative aligns with the goals of peace education, which seeks to prevent violence, promote understanding, and foster inclusive communities. With the commitment and hard work of the clubs committee, UFO is poised to make a positive impact on Ghana’s peace and development.
By: Samuel Adobah
