Former NCCE Directors oppose the scrapping of Commission Members – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a significant development affecting Ghana’s civic education landscape, former National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) directors have publicly opposed a proposal to amend the 1992 Constitution to reduce the Commission’s membership. The proposal, advanced by the Constitution Review Committee (CRC), seeks to streamline the NCCE from a seven-member body to a three-member executive, eliminating the four additional members. This move has ignited debate about the future effectiveness of Ghana’s primary civic education institution.

The opposition, led by Frank Adobah and Patrick Asiedu, former regional directors of the NCCE, underscores concerns that removing these members would cripple the Commission’s ability to fulfill its constitutional mandate. Their stance highlights a broader conversation about institutional design, expertise, and the preservation of civic engagement in Ghana’s democratic framework.

Key Points

Background

The NCCE’s Constitutional Role

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) was established in 1993 under Article 232 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana. Its primary mandate is to educate and sensitize Ghanaians on civic responsibilities, democratic values, and the principles of good governance. The Commission plays a critical role in promoting national unity, social cohesion, and active citizenship.

Current Structure

The NCCE is currently composed of seven members:

1. The Commissioner (Chairperson)
2. Two Deputy Commissioners
3. Four other members appointed by the President.

The four additional members are typically drawn from diverse professional backgrounds, including law, education, media, and civil society. They are intended to provide a broad range of perspectives and expertise to guide the Commission’s work.

Constitution Review Committee (CRC)

The CRC is a parliamentary committee tasked with reviewing the 1992 Constitution to propose amendments that enhance governance, accountability, and democratic participation. Its recommendations are subject to public consultation and parliamentary approval before being presented to the electorate for a referendum.

Analysis

The Value of the Four Additional Members

Former NCCE directors argue that the four additional members are not merely ceremonial. They serve as a critical reservoir of experience, providing strategic guidance on policy formulation, program implementation, and institutional management. Their diverse professional backgrounds enable the Commission to approach civic education challenges holistically.

Frank Adobah, who served as Regional Director for the Volta and Central Regions, emphasized that these members contribute significantly to the Commission’s independence. Their presence ensures that decisions are not made in isolation but are informed by a broad spectrum of societal perspectives.

Risks of Reducing Membership

The proposed reduction raises several concerns:

• Loss of Expertise: Eliminating the four members would remove valuable expertise in law, education, and community engagement.
• Reduced Independence: A smaller, more centralized structure could make the Commission more susceptible to executive influence.
• Institutional Memory: The four members often serve longer terms, preserving institutional knowledge and continuity.
• Comparative Disadvantage: Other constitutional bodies like CHRAJ and the Electoral Commission retain similar structures, suggesting their value.

The Advisory Board Alternative

As an alternative, the former directors propose reconstituting the four members as a formal Advisory Board. This would preserve their expertise and advisory role while potentially streamlining decision-making processes. An Advisory Board could meet regularly to review policies, provide strategic input, and ensure the Commission remains responsive to societal needs.

Broader Implications for Civic Education

The debate over the NCCE’s structure reflects a larger conversation about the role of civic education in a healthy democracy. In an era of misinformation, political polarization, and declining trust in institutions, the NCCE’s work is more critical than ever. A weakened Commission could hinder efforts to promote informed citizenship, democratic participation, and social cohesion.

Practical Advice

For Policymakers

• Conduct a comprehensive impact assessment of the proposed changes on the NCCE’s effectiveness.
• Engage in broad stakeholder consultations, including former and current NCCE officials, civil society organizations, and the public.
• Consider the Advisory Board model as a compromise that preserves expertise while addressing efficiency concerns.
• Ensure that any changes align with international best practices for civic education institutions.

For the Public

• Stay informed about the constitutional review process and its implications for civic education.
• Participate in public consultations and submit comments to the CRC.
• Advocate for the preservation of institutions that promote democratic values and civic engagement.
• Support initiatives that strengthen civic education at the community level.

For NCCE Leadership

• Engage proactively with the CRC to present evidence-based arguments for the current structure.
• Document the specific contributions of the four additional members to the Commission’s work.
• Explore innovative ways to enhance the Commission’s efficiency without compromising its effectiveness.
• Strengthen partnerships with civil society organizations, educational institutions, and the media to amplify civic education efforts.

FAQ

Conclusion

The proposal to eliminate the four additional members of the NCCE represents a significant moment in Ghana’s constitutional evolution. While the intent to streamline institutions is understandable, the potential consequences for civic education and democratic participation cannot be overlooked. The voices of former NCCE directors, grounded in years of experience, offer valuable insights into the practical implications of such a change.

Their proposal to reconstitute these members as an Advisory Board presents a pragmatic compromise that preserves expertise while addressing efficiency concerns. Ultimately, any decision must prioritize the long-term health of Ghana’s democracy and the critical role of informed, engaged citizenship.

As the constitutional review process continues, it is imperative that all stakeholders engage in thoughtful, evidence-based dialogue. The future of civic education in Ghana depends on decisions made today.