For many of them, it was the first time standing inside the very chamber where Ghana’s laws are made. Eyes opened wide with curiosity and pride, the members of the Sunyani Adolescents Parliament looked down from the Public Gallery of Ghana’s Parliament - not as tourists, but as young citizens beginning to understand their power, their voice and their future.
This transformative experience was made possible through the Resilient City for Adolescents (RCA) Project, implemented by Global Media Foundation (GLOMEF), Citizens Watch Ghana and Indigeneus Women Empowerment Network with funding from Fondation Botnar through Ecorys UK. A total of 38 participants including 26 adolescents and 12 staff members - embarked on the educational journey. They were led by the GLOMEF’s CEO, Raphael Godlove Ahenu, and the Executive Director of Citizens Watch Ghana, Simon Asore.
The team was warmly received by Members of Parliament from the Bono Region, including the MP for Sunyani East, Mubarak Seid and MPs from Banda, Ahmed Ibrahim Dormaa West, Vincent Oppong Asamoah and Berekum West, Dickson Kyere Duah.
Inside the chamber, Parliamentary staff patiently guided the adolescents through the workings of the House, as they witnessed firsthand the three key constitutional functions of Parliament: law-making, oversight and representation - bringing their civic lessons to life in a way no classroom ever could. They had the rare opportunity to ask several questions pertaining to the functions of the House.
Beyond the chamber, the journey became interesting and engaging. At the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, the adolescents reflected on the legacy of leadership, sacrifice and patriotism that shaped Ghana’s democracy. Inspiration, courage and deep emotions grew, when the adolescent MPs were conducted round and briefed by Lady Chantel, the Tour Guard at the Nkrumah Memorial Park.
Laughter, bonding and moments of freedom followed at the Labadi Beach, where learning blended seamlessly with joy, friendship and unforgettable memories by the adolescents captured in photographs.
Speaking to the adolescents, Mr. Raphael Godlove Ahenu, CEO of GLOMEF challenged them to dream boldly but live responsibly, reminding them that “leadership begins with discipline, values and service to nation.” His words resonated strongly with the young parliamentarians, many of whom now see themselves as future MPs, advocates journalists, and community leaders. He applauded the funders Fondation Botnar and Ecorys UK for investing so much in the lives of the adolescents through the resilient city for adolescents project.
The MP for Sunyani East also delivered a heartfelt caution, urging the adolescents to stay away from drug abuse and social vices, stressing that their talents and potential must not be derailed by choices that could destroy their future.
This visit was more than a trip, it was a turning point. It reaffirmed the vision of the RCA project: to empower adolescents with knowledge, confidence, and platforms to participate meaningfully in governance and civic life.
The Leader of the Sunyani Adolescents Parliament, Speaker Frimpong Sarkodie Daniel acknowledged the huge transformation, confidence abd experiences gained by adolescents through the RCA project cannot be overemphasised.
He called for more opportunities for more young people in Ghana, and also insisted that the RCA project be sustained at all cost.
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