The National Council for Civic Education (NCCE) as part of its efforts to create greater awareness on the rights of all and sundry recently held a one-day seminar at the Kairaba Beach Hotel.

Speaking at the forum, Mr. John P Bojang, the Chairman of National Council for Civic Education called on government and Non-Governmental Organisations, to invest their resources on young children.

According to him, it is worthy to invest in children, as they are the future leaders.

He added that a good foundation should be inculcated in children, citing the foundation of formal education, cultural education and skilled education.

“We must focus all and put adequate resources on nurturing our children in the best way so as to become future responsible leaders who can always develop this country,” he added.

Noting that civic and human rights need to be introduced into the school curriculum, he said civic and human rights if taught in schools, has the potential to educate young children their rights and responsibilities.

“If children are taught their rights effectively, they can participate fully in governance process in accordance with the provisions of the constitution, which guarantee equality of all”, said Mr. Bojang.

He stated that in order to achieve peace and harmony, there is a need to respect each others’ rights by fulfilling our responsibilities as citizens of this country. Therefore, we are obligated to foster, promote and nurture conditions and situations that enhance peace and co-existence.

Mr. Dawda Jallow, NCCE’s Program Officer, in his presentation, noted that there is a direct link between the extension of universal basic education and democratisation.

According to him, choosing to introduce civic education curriculum in schools requires a thorough consideration of related issues such as the intended outcomes, the material to be taught, teachers and its implementation process, among others.

Mr. Jallow further affirmed that it is obvious that youth constitute half of the population of any country and that they are the cream of society.