YILO KROBO RTI UNIT EDUCATES PUPILS ON THEIR RIGHT TO INFORMATION
The Yilo Krobo Municipal Assembly RTI Unit has intensified efforts to promote awareness of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2019 (Act 989) through community engagement activities, this time targeting pupils of Somanya SRA Presbyterian Basic School. The sensitization programme, held on June 24, 2026, sought to equip learners with knowledge of their constitutional right to access information and to foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and active citizenship from an early age. The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to bring the provisions of the RTI Act closer to communities and empower citizens to participate meaningfully in governance and development.
During the engagement, pupils were introduced to the provisions of Article 21(1)(f) of the 1992 Constitution and the RTI Act in simple and relatable terms. The Municipal RTI Officer explained that information held by public institutions belongs to the people and that every citizen has the right to request such information without having to provide a reason. The session highlighted the critical role of Information Officers in facilitating access to information, guiding applicants through the request process, and ensuring that public institutions comply with the requirements of the law.
The importance of the RTI Act in promoting open governance was a key focus of the sensitization. Pupils learned how access to information helps citizens monitor the use of public resources, hold public officials accountable for their decisions, and participate actively in community development initiatives. Through practical examples relating to school infrastructure and public expenditure, the learners were shown how the law can be used to seek information on projects and services that directly affect their communities. These discussions helped demonstrate that access to information is an essential tool for transparency and responsible governance.
The programme concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which pupils sought clarification on response timelines and the options available when access to information is denied. The enthusiastic participation of the learners reflected a growing interest in civic engagement and accountability. By empowering young people with knowledge of their rights under the RTI Act, the Yilo Krobo Municipal Assembly is helping to build a more informed citizenry capable of contributing to transparent governance and sustainable community development.
