BIRIM NORTH RTI OFFICER SENSITISES TEACHING STAFF ON RIGHT TO INFORMATION ACT
The Birim North District Assembly, through its Right to Information (RTI) Unit, has sensitised teaching staff of Ntronang Presbyterian Primary and Junior High School on the implementation of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989). The engagement, held in July 2026 at Akim Ntronang, formed part of efforts to deepen public understanding of the right to access information and promote transparency and accountability in public affairs. The sensitisation was facilitated by the District RTI Officer, Mr. Gyapong Eric, who guided participants on how the RTI framework empowers citizens to seek information from public institutions and relevant private institutions as provided by law.
Mr. Gyapong educated the teaching staff on the procedures and requirements for making RTI requests, including the manner and form of applications, applicable timelines, circumstances under which fees may be paid or waived, offences and sanctions, and exemptions to the disclosure of information. He also highlighted the obligations of public institutions under the Act and encouraged participants to use the RTI framework responsibly to obtain information relevant to their work and communities. He noted that access to reliable public information enables citizens to better understand public policies and development initiatives, monitor the delivery of services and contribute meaningfully to decision-making processes.
An interactive question-and-answer session provided an opportunity for participants to raise concerns regarding practical challenges associated with accessing information. Discussions highlighted the need to expand technological channels for submitting and accessing information, safeguard applicants’ personal information against unauthorised disclosure, ensure institutional compliance with the provisions of the Act and improve accessibility for older persons and persons with disabilities who may require assistance when making information requests. The engagement demonstrated the important role of the RTI Officer in identifying challenges affecting access to information and educating citizens and public institutions on measures that can strengthen implementation of the law.
The sensitisation concluded with a call for greater collaboration among public institutions, information officers and community stakeholders to ensure that the right to information is accessible to all. The RTI Officer encouraged participants to share the knowledge gained with colleagues and community members and to support initiatives that promote transparency, accountability and responsible access to information. The programme established the importance of the Right to Information Act as a tool for empowering citizens, promoting inclusive participation in governance and ensuring that vulnerable groups are not excluded from information that can contribute to improved public services and sustainable community development.
