KINTAMPO COLLEGE OF NURSING STUDENTS SENSITISED ON RIGHT TO INFORMATION ACT

The Right to Information (RTI) Officer of Ankaful Psychiatric Hospital, Mr. Isaac Esuon, has sensitised students of the Kintampo College of Nursing and Midwifery on the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989). The sensitisation programme was held on Monday, 18th August 2026, during the students’ clinical training at the Hospital. The engagement formed part of efforts to broaden public understanding of the RTI framework and equip young professionals with knowledge of their right to access information held by public institutions and relevant private bodies, subject to the exemptions provided by law.

Mr. Esuon took the students through key concepts and provisions of the RTI Act, explaining the importance of access to official information in promoting transparency, accountability and informed participation in public affairs. He highlighted the role of the RTI Officer in guiding information seekers, facilitating lawful access to information and helping citizens understand the procedures for making requests. The session also demonstrated how access to credible information can enable citizens and professionals to better understand public policies, programmes and services that directly affect their communities.

The sensitisation was interactive, with the students engaging the facilitator through questions and discussions on the practical application of the RTI Act. Through relatable illustrations, Mr. Esuon simplified key concepts under the law and demonstrated how the right to information can be exercised responsibly when seeking information from public institutions. The students expressed appreciation for the practical approach to the presentation and gained a better understanding of their fundamental right to access information and the responsibilities associated with exercising that right.

The programme underscored the importance of continuous RTI education among young people and professionals as a means of building an informed citizenry capable of contributing meaningfully to community development. By educating citizens on their information rights and facilitating access to credible official information, RTI Officers play an important role in strengthening transparency, accountability and public participation in governance. The engagement at Ankaful Psychiatric Hospital therefore contributed to equipping future health professionals with knowledge that can support informed decision-making, responsible citizenship and improved engagement with public institutions.