Introduction

The Kofi A. Tawiah Good Citizenship Challenge is an annual competition designed to foster good citizenship, community service, and character development among Ghanaian students. In its second edition, the challenge saw remarkable participation from schools across the country, each striving to make a tangible impact in their communities. This year, The McCarthy Hill School in Accra emerged as the overall winner, showcasing exceptional dedication to service learning and community development.

Key Points

Background

The Kofi A. Tawiah Good Citizenship Challenge

The Kofi A. Tawiah Good Citizenship Challenge is an initiative by the Kofi A. Tawiah Foundation, aimed at promoting good citizenship and character development among students in Ghana. The challenge is open to all Ghanaian schools, from upper primary to senior high schools, and encourages students to engage in service learning projects that address real community issues.

Objective of the Challenge

The primary objective of the challenge is to cultivate essential character traits such as empathy, leadership, teamwork, and social responsibility among students. By identifying community problems and implementing sustainable solutions, students gain practical experience in problem-solving and community service.

Analysis

Outstanding Winners and Their Impactful Projects

The McCarthy Hill School: “I Care Day” Initiative

The McCarthy Hill School secured the top spot with their “I Care Day” initiative, a testament to their commitment to community service and compassion. Over three weeks, the school raised approximately GHC 245,000 to donate life-saving neonatal equipment to the Weija Gbawe Municipal Hospital. The donated equipment included:

• An incubator
• A phototherapy machine
• A CPAP machine
• An oxygen cylinder
• A cardiotocography machine
• Vein finders
• A pulse oximeter
• A baby weighing scale

This initiative not only showcased the school’s organizational skills and empathy but also highlighted their ability to mobilize the entire school community towards a common goal.

RisingSun Montessori School: Addressing Mental and Emotional Health

RisingSun Montessori School took second place with their project focused on mental and emotional health, an often overlooked area in youth-led service learning. The school collaborated with LEKMA Hospital and Sakumono Complex Primary A School to provide art therapy sessions for children experiencing trauma.

The project was praised for its professionalism, ethical sensitivity, and compassion. Beneficiaries reported significant emotional transformation, making this initiative a standout in terms of financial stewardship and impact on mental health.

International Community School: Clean Water Initiative

The International Community School in Kumasi secured third place with their clean water project. The school raised nearly GHC 80,000 to provide clean and accessible water to the students and staff of Semenhyiakrom D/A Basic School, benefiting over 600 people.

This project aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 6 (Clean Water & Sanitation) and SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-being). The initiative demonstrated strong teamwork, resource mobilization, and a long-term vision for community development.

Other Notable Participants

Several other schools presented outstanding projects, including:

• Charles Wesley Academy Foundation
• SOS Hermann Gmeiner International College
• Faith Montessori School
• ChristField School
• Prestea Anglican Primary School

These projects collectively demonstrated the passion, enthusiasm, teamwork, and problem-solving skills of all participating schools.

Practical Advice

How Schools Can Foster Good Citizenship

Schools play a crucial role in fostering good citizenship and character development among students. Here are some practical steps schools can take:

1. Integrate Service Learning: Incorporate service learning into the curriculum to provide students with hands-on experience in addressing community issues.
2. Encourage Student-Led Initiatives: Empower students to identify community problems and develop sustainable solutions, fostering leadership and innovation.
3. Promote Teamwork and Collaboration: Encourage students to work in teams, promoting collaboration and communication skills.
4. Highlight the Importance of Empathy: Teach students the value of empathy and compassion through community service projects.
5. Recognize and Reward Efforts: Acknowledge and reward students’ efforts in community service to motivate continued engagement.

Parental Involvement in Character Development

Parents also play a vital role in fostering good citizenship and character development in their children. Here are some ways parents can contribute:

1. Encourage Open Communication: Create a safe space for children to express their thoughts and feelings, fostering emotional intelligence.
2. Model Good Behavior: Demonstrate positive values such as honesty, respect, and social responsibility in daily life.
3. Support School Initiatives: Actively participate in and support school-led community service projects.
4. Teach the Value of Giving Back: Instill in children the importance of giving back to the community through volunteer work and charitable activities.
5. Promote Critical Thinking: Encourage children to think critically about social issues and develop their own solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Kofi A. Tawiah Good Citizenship Challenge?

The Kofi A. Tawiah Good Citizenship Challenge is an annual competition organized by the Kofi A. Tawiah Foundation to promote good citizenship, community service, and character development among Ghanaian students.

Who can participate in the challenge?

The challenge is open to all Ghanaian schools, from upper primary to senior high schools.

What are the criteria for winning the challenge?

Winning projects are evaluated based on their impact, sustainability, innovation, teamwork, and alignment with the foundation’s mission of fostering good citizenship.

What prizes are awarded to the winners?

The winners receive cash prizes, certificates, and commemorative plaques. The overall winner receives GH¢15,000, the second-place school receives GH¢10,000, and the third-place school receives GH¢5,000.

How can schools get involved in the challenge?

Schools can get involved by registering for the challenge and submitting their service learning projects. Detailed information on registration and submission can be found on the Kofi A. Tawiah Foundation’s website.

Conclusion

The 2025 Kofi A. Tawiah Good Citizenship Challenge has once again demonstrated the power of service learning in fostering good citizenship and character development among Ghanaian youth. The outstanding projects presented by The McCarthy Hill School, RisingSun Montessori School, and International Community School highlight the potential of young people to make a tangible impact in their communities.

As the Kofi A. Tawiah Foundation continues to expand the reach and impact of the challenge, it envisions a Ghana where every young person possesses strong character, a service-oriented mindset, and the courage to lead positive change. The inspiring efforts of this year’s participants serve as a reminder that the future of Ghana is bright, with its youth ready to lead with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to community development.