By Baba Mohammed Issahaq
Students from Pong-Tamale Senior High School in the Savulegu municipality got a rare opportunity to interact directly with Ghana’s lawmakers during a special edition of the Citizens in Focus forum, held at the Parliament House in Accra today.
The forum, part of Parliament’s initiative to promote transparency and civic education, is designed to bring citizens, especially young people, closer to the country’s democratic processes. Through tailored engagement sessions, participants gain a deeper understanding of how Parliament works and how they can contribute meaningfully to national development.
Addressing the students, the Member of Parliament for Savelugu, Hon. Fatahiya Aziz Abdul, emphasised the importance of civic awareness among young people. “It is important that young people understand how Parliament works, because you are the future leaders,” she said. She encouraged the students to take their education seriously and participate actively in shaping the country’s future.
Dr. Gloria Sarku Kumawu, Deputy Clerk in charge of Information Management Services, provided the students with a detailed overview of the legislative process from the drafting and presentation of a Bill to its passage into law. Her presentation brought the abstract concept of governance to life, making it more relatable and accessible to the students.
Several Members of Parliament also interacted with the students, sharing their journeys and reflections on leadership, service, and civic duty. These included Hon. Habib Iddrisu (MP for Tolon and First Deputy Minority Whip), Hon. Francis-Xavier Sosu (MP for Madina), Hon. Alhassan Suhuyini (MP for Tamale North), Hon. Millicent Amankwah Yeboah (MP for Sunyani West), Hon. Seid Mubarak (MP for Sunyani East), and Hon. Damata Ama Appianimaa Salam (MP for Afigya Kwabre South).
Each MP underscored the role of discipline, hard work, and responsible citizenship as cornerstones of both personal and national progress.
The Citizens in Focus forum is spearheaded by Parliament’s Department of Public Engagement. It forms part of a broader national effort to encourage participatory democracy, foster transparency, and build a more informed citizenry.
