Accra, Ghana – On May 12th and 13th, 2026, the University of Professional Studies (UPSA), Accra, in collaboration with HUSS Petroleum and other partners, launched a vital two-day educational outreach program for pupils at Anomabo Methodist, Anglican, and Catholic Basic Schools. This initiative aimed to foster responsible participation in the Okyir Festival, enhance child safety awareness, cultivate cultural pride, and introduce practical Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) skills to young learners in the Anomabo community.
Context: Researching and Responding to Festival Dynamics
The school engagement program stemmed directly from research findings on the Okyir Festival, a significant cultural event in Anomabo. The festival is recognized for its role in promoting culture, unity, economic opportunities, and community identity. However, the research also identified negative societal impacts often associated with such large gatherings, including peer pressure, indiscipline, poor sanitation, substance abuse, and unsafe behaviors among youth.
Understanding these dynamics, UPSA and its partners designed the program to equip young attendees with the knowledge and tools to navigate festive periods safely and constructively. The initiative sought to leverage the cultural significance of the Okyir Festival as a platform for positive youth development.
Promoting Responsible Festival Participation and Safety
The first day of the program focused on raising awareness and sensitizing pupils to the importance of responsible festival conduct. Representatives from UPSA presented key findings from their community survey, emphasizing the festival’s cultural and economic benefits while also highlighting the potential pitfalls.
Pupils were encouraged to embrace positive behaviors such as respecting elders, demonstrating cultural pride, maintaining cleanliness, and practicing teamwork. A crucial component of the day involved a presentation by officers from the Mankessim Divisional Command of the Ghana Police Service.
Led by ASP/Rev. Hayford Alavi, Divisional Crime Officer, and supported by PW/C/Inspr. Vida Collinson Coffie, Divisional DOVVSU Investigator, the police addressed critical topics including child protection, gender-based violence, personal safety, and responsible conduct during festivals. They advised pupils to avoid dangerous situations, report suspicious activities, seek assistance from trusted adults, and remain vigilant in public spaces.
The police also extended their call to action to teachers, parents, community leaders, and religious organizations, stressing the collective responsibility in safeguarding children and fostering safer community environments. This collaborative approach aims to create a protective network around the youth.
Introducing TVET Skills for Future Employability
The second day shifted focus to practical skill development, introducing pupils to TVET through hands-on activities facilitated by FRAME Educational Consult. The children engaged in crafting various items, including slippers and ribbons, showcasing their creativity and ability to work collaboratively.
This segment underscored the value of skills training in building self-confidence and enhancing future employability. The practical exercises provided tangible outcomes and fostered a sense of accomplishment among the participants.
Expert Endorsements and Community Support
Facilitators including Professor Alexander Preko, Dr. Theophilus Gyepi-Garbrah, and Dr. Patricia Muah commended the pupils for their enthusiastic engagement. They urged the young learners to become advocates for responsible festival participation, discipline, and community development.
The success of the program was significantly bolstered by the cooperation of the headmasters from the three participating schools and the local Catholic priest. Their support was instrumental in organizing the event at the school level.
A Collaborative Effort and Future Commitments
The initiative was generously sponsored by UPSA, HUSS Petroleum, and several individuals: Tiah Gumah Aloysius (Executive Director, Amplio Ghana), Norvan Acquah-Hayford (Head of Public Relations, Ghana Link Network Services Ltd), Rebecca Ayeh (Head of Sales and Acting General Manager, Tanink Ghana Limited), Jacob Kanyire Dagbee (Marketing and Operations Manager, Gaso Petroleum Ltd), all PhD students at UPSA, and Prince Kojo Simpri of Affluence Global Ltd.
Organizers expressed deep gratitude to all facilitators, sponsors, the Ghana Police Service, teachers, pupils, and community leaders who contributed to the program’s success. They affirmed their commitment to the sustainability of this initiative, planning for continued school and community engagements that integrate cultural education, safety awareness, and practical skills development.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Positive Development
The Okyir Festival outreach program represents a forward-thinking approach to community development, addressing both the cultural heritage and the future readiness of the youth. The organizers’ commitment to ongoing engagement suggests a sustained effort to empower young Ghanaians with essential life skills and a strong sense of cultural identity. The continued success of such programs will be measured by the long-term impact on responsible citizenship and the economic empowerment of the Anomabo community’s younger generation.
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