Takoradi: The Sekondi-Takoradi Cluster of Compassion International Ghana Assisted Projects organized a four-day residential conference aimed at educating children on avoiding irresponsible behavior in a technologically driven world. Dubbed “Impact Camp 2025,” the theme of the conference was “Anchored in Christ: Equipped to Lead, Empowered by the Spirit, Living with Purpose.”

According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative was deemed necessary by Compassion International Ghana due to the negative influence of cyber activities on the youth. The organization aimed to center the lives of these young individuals on Christ, enabling them to make informed decisions. The expectation was that attendees would challenge, influence, and impact their peers who could not attend the camp.

Mr. Bernard Ekow Aggrey, Project Director for the Anaji Estate Christ the King Methodist Youth Development Centre, urged the government to strengthen the educational curriculum by reintroducing subjects like Citizenship, Religious and Moral Education, and other patriotic subjects. He emphasized that instilling social norms and cultural values into the youth would be beneficial for the nation. He also noted the challenges parents face in a technologically driven world, suggesting that new strategies are needed for molding children’s behavior.

Mr. Stephen Larbi Appiah, Partnership Facilitator at the Sekondi-Takoradi Cluster, highlighted the organization’s commitment to partnering with churches to groom children and youth, aiming to release them from poverty. He mentioned ongoing training sessions for parents and caregivers to positively impact their children at home. Mr. Larbi-Appiah stressed the importance of cyber security training due to internet abuse, and announced plans to collaborate with parents for career guidance and counseling for students.

Mr. Issaquah Amanu, a Cyber Security Expert, educated the children on both the negative and positive aspects of social media. He advised them to protect themselves from fraud and other negative activities while using the internet for learning and development. Mr. Amanu also called for government support in providing rural communities with electricity and technological tools.

Apostle Dr. William Kweku Adenu, Camp Commandant, stated that Compassion is focused on the holistic development of children, addressing cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains. He advised young girls to avoid provocative dressing on social media to safeguard their futures. Mr. Henry Nyanzu Kofie, Project Director of Compassion International Ghana, reiterated the organization’s dedication to instilling Christian values and critical thinking skills in the youth.