Governance and Citizenship

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LECTURE NOTES 1 

LECTURE NOTES 2 

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CITIZENSHIP NOTE 1 

CITIZENSHIP NOTE 2 

PAST/TRIAL QUESTIONS

(A)

(B)

CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION

 

UNIT ONE

 

THE CONCEPT OF CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION

Meaning of citizen

A citizen is a person who is a member of a country or a nation and this membership enables the individual to enjoy certain rights, privileges, and facilities provided by the country or nation.

 

Meaning of citizenship

The position or status of being a member of a country. Citizenship is gained by meeting the legal requirements of a nation, state, or country.

 

Meaning of citizenship education

Citizenship education can be defined as educating children from early childhood to become clear-thinking and enlightened individuals who participate in decisions concerning society

 

Ways of acquiring citizenship

One can become a citizen of Ghana through

· Birth/decent

This is the commonest way of becoming a citizen of Ghana. an individual born to Ghanaian parents or whose grandparents are Ghanaians becomes an automatic member of the country. Moreover, the 1992 constitution provides that a child of not more than 7yrs of age found in Ghana and whose parents are not known becomes a citizen of the nation.

· Constitutional provision

With the coming into force of the 1992 constitution individuals who were already citizens of the country were declared citizens of Ghana.

 

· Registration

A foreigner (man/woman) who is married to a Ghanaian can become a citizen of Ghana upon applying to be registered as such.

 

· Naturalization

A foreigner who stays in Ghana for a long period of time and is of good social standing can upon application to the appropriate institution become a citizen of Ghana as required by laws made by parliament.

 

· Adoption

A child of not more than 16yrs of age shall become a citizen of Ghana upon adoption by Ghanaians

 

· Honorary conferment

This is where citizenship is conferred on a person who is not a citizen of Ghana because he/she has contributed to the development of the country or a just cause. eg DR Kwame Nkrumah coffered Ghana citizenship on W.E.B DuBois  

 

 

Self-assessment questions

1. Meaning of citizen?

2. Meaning of citizenship?

3. Meaning of citizenship education?

4. Ways of acquiring citizenship?

 

UNIT TWO

 

APPROACHES TO TEACHING CITIZENSHIP

 

1. Experience service

This is based on the adage “Experience is the best teacher”. The student must be provided with opportunities for active and responsible participation in the affairs of the school and community. Group methods of teaching, class projects, student council activities, and organization of play activities are useful methods in imparting training in citizenship.

 

2. Community involvement

The community involvement approach speaks for itself. The curricula should not isolate the student from experience in the “real world”. Field trips, excursions, and surveys must be utilized by the teacher. The students must be encouraged to render volunteer service to social agencies and also to participate in electoral politics and community functions.

 

3. Institutional reform

This is referred to as the Institutional School Reforms. It seeks to teach students to obey and respect the authority that legitimately governs them. This is an attempt to democratize the school and is also in line with Meier’s view that one important aspect of teaching citizenship approach is to ensure “a more democratic environment and atmosphere within the school”. The student is then fully aware of his rights as a member of the community. If commitment to democratic principles is to be an outcome of the education of citizens, it is of paramount importance that the school offers a good example of respect for democracy. There are two aspects of setting such a good example in the school.

The most obvious is that the school itself must be governed democratically. We lose our case for democracy when students can easily perceive that the school is run autocratically. School rules, like laws, should be fair and reasonable and students should be helped to understand the reasons for them. They should have a voice in the enactment of school rules. Governance in the school should never be arbitrary. The school should never underestimate the willingness of students to participate in their governance. As it should be in our society, the rights of the minority in the school setting should be faithfully respected.

Democracy is also exemplified in the school by the respect shown by teachers for intellectual honesty. Full respect must be given to the intelligence of students to think for themselves. Pressure tactics, being less candid, talking down to students, or using the classroom for propaganda are all completely out of tune with democracy and must never be employed if students are expected to develop a deep commitment to democracy as is taught in citizenship education. Teachers must exhibit in their own behaviour, not only respect for the intelligence of the students but also faith in the method of intelligence and reasoning.

 

4. Law-related

This will provide information on legal concepts such as the system of juvenile justice, problems of law enforcement agencies, and the constitution. The simple goal of this approach is to “preserve and justify the role of law in a democratic society”.

The social problem approach may concentrate on some particular issues in students’ lives e.g. war, crime, discrimination, poverty, pollution, drugs, etc. Knowledge about these issues can be used to clarify problems. The citizen is then made aware of the existence of a large body of information about society.

 

5. Critical thinking method

Critical thinking is endorsed by almost everyone. The critical citizen is portrayed as someone who cannot be deceived by the media or manipulated by leaders and can rationally reach independent conclusions. The student must be made aware of certain concepts and facts, related to the issue under consideration. There must be a structured classroom climate where opinions may be freely expressed. The teacher should then ask challenging questions and also challenge students to examine controversial topics.

 

6. Value clarification

 This simply enables the students to determine their own ultimate values. This can be taught through already existing courses or taught in special courses on values. The goal of value clarification helps the students to become purposeful, enthusiastic, and positive through a process of choosing, prizing, and acting. The moral development approach presents students with moral dilemmas where they are asked to reason with each other about the morally right solution. An example is a boy deciding whether to lie to his father in order to save his brother from punishment. According to this approach, students will discover inadequacies in their reasoning as they confront persons who reason at higher stages. The student's ability to resolve these dilemmas will lead to the adoption of more sophisticated reasoning patterns.

 

7. Exemplary Approach

This is based on the adage that “example is better than precept”. The social studies teacher must set a good example of ideal behaviour in his relations with others to enable the student to emulate him. The social studies teacher in order to teach the students about citizenship is to be a role model to her students. If the lesson is about lying, the teacher should be sure, to tell the truth always, especially while her students are watching and listening

 

 

8. Academic Discipline

This method teaches the fact, concepts, and generalizations about social phenomena in the academic disciplines, especially history and social studies. Instead of focusing on specific problems that the individual might face, the approach rather assumes that the mastery of developed systems will help the individual to face unpredictable and unforeseeable problems in civic matters. This may create a learning situation where the citizen will not merely acquire factual knowledge but will also help develop approaches to discovering important relationships.

 

Self-assessment questions

 

Discuss the approaches to teaching citizenship

 

UNIT THREE

 

QUALITIES/ RESPONSIBILITIES OF A GOOD CITIZENS

 

The fundamentals of good citizenship/Good citizenship behaviours

Every citizen of a country is expected to possess certain qualities. The following are some of the qualities ‘you need to know particularly with respect to Ghana:

 

· Being loyal to the state

 A good citizen must be loyal to his or her country at all times. Being loyal means that you are faithful and committed to the ideals and visions of the country. A loyal citizen will protect the interest of his or her country and would not disclose vital national secrets to “enemy” countries.

 

· Promote national pride

A good citizen promotes the prestige and good name of his or her country. He or she must show respect to national symbols, laws, institutions, and ceremonies. We can promote national pride by supporting our national teams and clubs when they engage in international sports and games. We can also promote national pride by taking an active part in social activities such as general cleaning, neighbourhood protection, and other community activities.

 

· Defend the Constitution

The defense of the constitution and other laws of the country is a very good attribute that a good citizen must have. We must expose people whose actions undermine the state and the constitution of the land. We must also resist all oppressive rules and all manner of disrespect for human rights, freedom, and liberties. We can also defend the constitution by actively participating in all national exercises such as voting during the elections, participating in censuses, open fora, and other discussions relating to good governance, constitutional review, and amendments.

 

·  Being respectful and tolerant of others' views

 A good citizen must respect the rights, freedoms, and legitimate (legal) interests of other people. He or she must desist from actions that may affect the welfare or interest of others. A good citizen must also tolerate the views, opinions, and beliefs of others in society. Showing respect and tolerance for each other’s views, opinions and beliefs will foster national peace, security, and unity.

 

· Fostering national unity

Fostering national unity, living in harmony, peaceful coexistence, and good neighbourliness are good hallmarks of a citizen. Every citizen must aspire to live peacefully with their neighbours and other persons in society. This can be achieved when all Ghanaians understand each other at school, at home, workplace, in a religious place of worship, and within the community.

 

· Paying rates and taxes

A good citizen must declare his or her income honestly to the appropriate and lawful agencies and pay all tax liabilities to the state. Personal income tax, value added tax, tolls and levies, import and export duties, corporate tax, and property rates are some key taxes and levies we must pay as citizens of Ghana. By paying our taxes, rates, and levies, we are contributing to the provision of social amenities and supporting the government or assemblies to meet their expenditures.

 

The duties and responsibilities of a Ghanaian citizen

 

· Payment of tax

This is one of the major responsibilities or duties of an individual. The individual is expected to honor his tax obligations to the nation for the following reasons; provision of infrastructure, provision of social amenities. Payment of salaries etc.

 

· Obedience to the laws of the state

The individual is expected to obey the laws that have been established by the state .this is because it is these laws that regulates the behaviours of people to ensure the promotion of peace and stability in the nation.

  

· Defending the state

the Individual as a citizen is bound by  obligation to defend the states both from within and without .in this, the individual is expected to be enlisted  into the military or join forces with the army as a civilian in times of crises, that is aggression that threatens the security of the nation from within and without .

 

 

· Honoring communal labour

The individual is expected as a duty to take part in all community activities that seek to develop the community. These communal activities are taken by communities improve the socio-economic conditions of their citizens .g. communal labour to clean the market, build a school, repair streets and build highways

 

· Respecting the rights of others

Individuals are expected not to interfere with the rights of other citizens, so that, their rights are not inferred with by other people.

 

· Maintenance and protection of state property

Since the government will divert public funds to repair or replace worn out or broken equipment the individual is expected to take proper care of the property of the state e.g. classroom desks or school properties .the individual should also try as much as possible to cultivate the culture of maintenance. This will help government of the day to save money and use funds for the projects or purpose intended

 

· Performing national service.

Individual who have completed their courses at the various tertiary institutions should make themselves available for the service of the nation. Such individual’s should be prepared to accept posting to any part of the country where their services may be needed  

 

· Participation in national politics

The individual as apolitical being should take part in all the political activities of the nation. The individual is expected to vote and or be voted for during election  

 

· Keeping state secrets /loyal to the state

The individual is obligated not to divulge the secrets of the nation to the people or governments of other nations .this is because it threatens the security of the state.

 

· Reporting crime

           It is the duty of every citizen to report crime or acts likely to lead to crime to the police and other security agencies

 

· Defend the constitution

This is to say that the individual should uphold the constitution and defend the content of the constitution. Any well minded Ghanaian should uphold in high esteem the constitution of the republic of Ghana.

 

 

 

 

Reasons why citizens should perform their responsibilities

 

· National development is the responsibility of everyone

Since everyone will benefit from the socioeconomic development of the nation, it is expected that this is not left in the hands of certain people, but everyone should endeavor to contribute whatever he can.

 

· Collective efforts of individuals brings societal advancement

This is a clear case of a bundle of broomsticks and a stick of a broom. One finds it easy breaking a stick of broom but one finds it difficult to break a bundle of broom. This basically means that if all Ghanaians make conscious effort to work together the society will advance.

 

· There is self-fulfillment and satisfaction in fulfilling one obligation

True minded Ghanaians become self-satisfied if they fulfill all their obligation to their nation. Such people believe that it is their contribution that will enable them to enjoy the benefits of the socioeconomic development of Ghana.

 

· Responsibilities correspond with rights

There can be no rights without responsibility. Rights and responsibility are two sides of the same coin this suggests that all must perform their responsibilities because the rights that they enjoy corresponds with responsibilities that must be performed .e.g.  our children have rights to free education but to get free education taxes as responsibilities must be paid so that government will get the money for free SHS.

 

· fear of being punished

The rights that individual enjoy comes with responsibilities that must be performed. Individual who refuse to perform these responsibilities might be prosecuted and given fines or prison terms. It is this fear of being punished that encourages people to perform their responsibilities

 

· help protect government purse

When individuals in the society perform their responsibilities by reporting crime, the public purse will be protected because the resource which was hitherto going to be lost to only an individual will be saved.  Also, when all hands are on deck, government instead of using the little income to replace or repair an amenity will have to use the resource available to provide needed social amenities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

UNIT FOUR

 

FUNDAMENTAL HUMAN RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS

 

 

TYPES OF RIGHTS

 

· Legal Rights

These are rights that protect an individual from unlawful arrest, gives easy access to the law court and a legal counsel or lawyer, legal aid, and fair hearing. Article 19 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana guarantees legal rights to every Ghanaian. For example, under the legal right to fair trial, ‘A person shall be presumed to be innocent until proven to be guilty by a competent court of jurisdiction.

 

· Political Rights

These are rights that allows an individual to participate in political events in the country. It allows an individual to belong to any political party or form any political group alone or with others, vote and be voted for in national elections. Article 21, clause 3 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana states that ‘All citizens shall have the legal right to form or join any political party and participate in their activities subjects to qualifications and laws as are necessary in a free and democratic society’.

 

· Economic Rights

These are rights that allow an individual to work under safe, healthy, and secured environment, form and join trade unions, and receive equal pay for equal work done, enjoy leisure or rest on public holidays as well as reasonable pay. This right ensures that every individual has the freedom or right to work or join trade unions without any restrictions. It also includes the right own a property as an individual or a group, and enjoy ones wealth or property.

 

· Social Rights

These are rights that allow an individual to access education and other public facilities. It accords special rights and protection to women, children, disabled and sick persons in

 

· Fundamental rights

There are several rights all human being should have or can aspire to have. However, there are some rights, which are so important that everybody must have. It is these important human rights that are referred to as fundamental human rights. These rights are so basic or fundamental that every living human being must enjoy them.

 

 

 Types of fundamental human rights

 

· Right to life

This means that no one has the right to take another’s life. UN has asked country’s to ban the death penalty because even the criminal who has gone through the judicial system and has been found guilty has the right to life. It therefore means that it is wrong for one to loose his/her life through somebody else other than through natural means

 

· The right to personal liberty

     This states that the individual should not be arrested or imprisoned for no unjust cause. The constitution of Ghana allows the police to hold a person for 48hours without prosecution.

 

 

· The right to human dignity

Everyone has a right to be respected. No one has the right to mar the reputation of another without evidence

 

· The right to privacy

This states that no one should interfere in the private affairs of others. If one suspects another of criminal activities, the individual can go ahead to report to the police who will go to court to seek for a warrant to interfere in an individual private affair.

 

· The right to own property

This states that the individual is has the right to acquire property legally and that no one has the right to seize or stop another from acquiring property legally.

 

· The right to freedom of thought conscience and religion/freedom of worship

This is the right of the individual to thinks the way he wants and to profess the kind of religion he wants to join.

 

· The right to freedom of speech and expression

And individual has the right to say or write or publish whatever he /she wants as long as what the individual is publishing or saying or writing is legal and it does not infringe on anyone’s rights

 

· Right to freedom of movement

Everyone has the right to move freely to any part of the country. However a few places have been restricted to workers of the establishment only. This means that once the place one wants to go to is a public place one has the right to be there without being stopped or restricted

 

· Right to freedom of association and assembly

The individual has a right to join any association of his choice and attend any legal public gathering. If it’s a private gathering or ceremony one will need to be invited or ask permission.

 

· Right to good health

Every individual has the right to good health. No one is to be denied health care because of his race, gender, political affiliation religion etc.

 

 

 

 

 Ways in which fundamental human rights and freedoms can be abused

 

Individual aspects

· Character assassination,

This is an attempt tarnish a person’s reputation. It may involve exaggeration, misleading half-truths or manipulation of facts to present an untrue picture of the targeted person. It is a form of deformation. (Also known as deformation of character)

 

· Suicide

Everybody has the right to life so if anyone decides to kill himself such a persons is abusing human right

 

· Prostitution

If any lady or gentleman gets involved in prostitution whether willfully or forced, such a person’s right is being abused

 

· Involvement in secret cults

Individuals have the right to freedom of worship but this worship should not seek to destroy the norms and values of the society. Hence if one is suspected of involvement in any secret cult of worship to modify human behaviour negatively. Ones right to freedom of worship will be taken away.

 

· Drug abuse

Everyone has the right to personal liberty .This allows one to do as he/she pleases but the individual who has been born into the society should develop herself or himself so as to be a productive member of the society.

 

Government aspects

· Government may disband any association at any point in time

· Misappropriation of funds by authority

· Imposition of religion

 

 

Conditions for curtailing fundamental human rights of individuals

 

· State of emergency

A state of emergency is declared when the security of the nation is threatened through war civil strife or demonstration or when there is natural disaster. Under such situations individual’s rights to freedom of movement can be curtailed through curfews and other restrictions

 

· Breaches of the law

Laws are established to regulate the behaviour of individuals and promote the enjoyment of rights .any breach of the law means therefore that the individual is a threat to society and the individual could be arrested and detained .it is for this reason that criminals (rapists, armed robbers, thieves’ drug traffickers) are arrested

 

· Commission of treason

Individuals will have their liberties curtailed in situations where their activities are a risk to national security and public order, activities of coup plotting, smuggling etc. threaten the security of the nation and so individuals who perpetrate these acts are arrested and detained

 

· Attack by contagious or dreadful disease

This is where the health of individuals is in danger. Individual who have been infected by contagious diseases such as leprosy, tuberculosis, cholera will have their movement restricted. They are not allowed to mingle freely with healthy individuals. They are confined to stop them spreading the infection

 

· Restricted areas

An individual’s right to movement can be curtailed if it is required by law .there are certain areas that have been marked as security zones and individuals are not allowed to free

 

movement in these areas for security reasons for instance civilians are not allowed free movements in the military camps or installations .

 

· Illegal acquisition of property

Individuals will have their properties seized if there is enough evidence to show the properties were acquired illegally.

 

· Libelous statements

The individual’s right to freedom of speech and expression may be curtailed if what the individual says or publishes in newspapers or articles have a tendency of destroying the reputation of another.

 

· Unapproved religious practices

The law forbids all religious practices that do not encourage the development of the community or society this means that individuals will have their rights to freedom of worship curtailed if there is enough evidence to believe that they engage in unapproved practices such as worshipping in their nudity or nakedness.

 

Assess yourself by answering the following questions

1. What are human rights?

2. What are some of the rights of Ghanaians under the 1992 constitution?

3. What are freedoms?

4. List any three freedoms we are entitled to in our Constitution?

5. What are responsibilities?

6. Mention two responsibilities of Ghanaian citizen?

7. Why is it necessary to have the responsibilities of citizens written in our constitution?

 

UNIT FIVE

 

THE INDIVIDUAL

 

 Knowing one self

· Self

Refers to the whole being of an individual taking into consideration his or her physical and psychological nature, as well as abilities. It is the sum total of the individuals beliefs, perception, actions and behaviour.

 

· Types of self

-Real self

It is the true self or the nature of an individual at all times. This answers the question “who am I”

-Other self

This how a person will like to be every student has a vision of how he will like to be; a nurse, a teacher, a journalist, a lawyer; this other self can be achieved through hard work

-Real other

This is how other people see a person or feel about you.

-Ideal other

This is the way a person thinks other people would like him or her to be. People may pretend when it comes to being the ideal person

 

· Self-concept

Self-concept implies an individual’s mental picture about him/herself. It also refers to the entire system of beliefs, attitudes and opinion that an individual hold to be true about his or her personal existence. It is how the individual perceives himself or herself who we are, our wishes and desires and our evaluations of ourselves.

 

· Self esteem

This is a concept which has to do with self-evaluation of one’s own feelings about ones feelings. It is how important the individual feels amongst other individual

· Self confidence

This is the trust that the individual has in himself or herself which makes him or her capable of doing some things very well

 

 

 

Attributes or capabilities that define oneself

 

Personality of an individual refers to the qualities or attributes of that individual that make him or her completely differ from others. These attributes or qualities are exceptionally unique to the individual concerned. Even though some other individuals may possess similar qualities, characteristics, or attributes, they may not be perfectly similar. At least, there would be some striking differences in some of these elements (qualities, attributes and characteristics).

   

           

· The name

 We all have names by which we are identified or known. In your class or neighbourhood, other individuals might bear the same name with you. In a larger community, it is even most likely that some individuals might bear the same surname with you. For example there could be somebody called “Stella Turkson”. In this hypothetical situation, you will agree with us that the name alone might not be a sufficient distinguishing factor. We may have to look out

for other characteristics that are not necessarily identical or similar, but peculiar to only and only Stella Turkson.

 

· Physical Appearance

These are the features we see on the person physically .This describes the personality of the individual in respect of whether he or she is tall, short, fat, slim or timid-looking. In effect it describes the personal outlook of the individual concerned. By implication, even though some individuals might bear the name; Stella Turkson, they will not by any stretch of imagination, possess the same perfectly identical physical look. Even with twin brothers or sisters, we can still identify minor differences in their personal outlook.

 

· Social relationship

This is how the individual relates to other individuals it is whether he or she is an introvert or extrovert. An extrovert is a lively and confident person who enjoys being with other people. Such people like working in groups instead of working alone. They relate well with others and are usually kind. You will realize that not all individuals possess this particular attribute it is therefore peculiar to some people. An Introvert is the direct opposite of an extrovert. He or she is the type of person who will want to work alone. He or she feels shy, inferior and most of the time, does not relate well with people. He prefers to listen to the views or problems of others, and will never allow others to know his views nor problems.

 

· Human Nature/character

This describes the peculiar behavior or character associated with some individuals. Some individuals are remarkably quick-tempered, while others are emotionally stable, calm and collected. These are important qualities which describe the personality of any individual, irrespective of age or sex.

 

· Potentials/capabilities

Every individual has certain peculiar potentials, abilities or capabilities. Some of these potentials are gifted while others are acquired. Some individuals have the potentials for manipulative skills, those that relate to the psychomotor domain. Examples include driving, carpentry work, drawing of objects, etc.

 

· Interests

This implies what the individuals likes. Each individual has his likes and dislikes .we may each have what appeals to us in terms of food, sports, clothing, colours, electronics etc.

 

Self-assessment questions

1. Explain the term self?

2. Explain self-concept?

3. Explain self-esteem?

4. Identify at least 3 domains that make up the self-concept

 5. Explain the concept; “personality”?

6. Identify and explain at least 3 qualities or characteristics of the human personality

 

 

UNIT SIX

 

YOUNG PEOPLE AND NATION BUILDING

 

Meaning of nation building

Nation building is the process by which members of the society make sustained and conscious efforts to maintain unity and harmonious living, with the sole aim of improving upon their quality of life or standard of living.

 

Challenges young people face in their role of promoting nation building

 

· Disparity in distribution of national resources

 The youth are the main stakeholders, policy makers and a major resource group playing an important role in taking up responsibilities, revolutionizing the other stakeholders, acting as a catalyst for bringing about change. They are leaders even now in their own right. Hence, these leaders have immense potential to mobilize the masses, be adaptable and act as a link between the two generations. Despite their many talents and assets, more and more young people in Ghana lack the resources they need to develop their hidden talents.  

 

· Unemployment

The lack of job opportunities the number of unemployed youth in Ghana is alarming. Unemployment erodes confidence and fuels negative feelings of what they are and what they can contribute .for those who are unsuccessful, the consequences can be devastating and long term. Youth employment follows several mutually reinforcing tracks. Young people should be equipped with the knowledge and skills in order to actively participate in the economy .without being employed these young ones will find it difficult contributing their quota to the development of Ghana

 

· poor governance

Poor governance in Ghana is one of the problems emanating from the manipulation of politics or governance in Ghana. Individual people or tribes have no internal problems with each other; they normally co-exist peacefully till political leaders poison their thinking. This political system has made many common folks to think exclusively in the lenses of their own tribe hence, falling victims of negative ethnicity. The youth through education should be made aware of these tricks used by the politicians to gain power and should read between the lines.

 

· Mass media and foreign influence

One problem that the youth of today face is the influence of the mass media and foreign culture .The mass media and its social networks have contributed to the breakdown of our traditional values which once served as a check on indiscipline and immorality. Negative media content adversely influence the youth to engage in unacceptable behaviours like internet fraud, promiscuous lifestyles and armed robbery.

 

· Inadequate parental control

An individual can only grow into a responsible adult if he /she has been taught how to behave like one during his /her childhood days. However, due to the busy schedule of the parents the moral standards of the youth has dropped. Parents need to go out to work to get income in order to meet their responsibilities towards their children. In their quest to chase money, they forget that they need to bring up their children in a way that conforms to societal norms and may leave the upbringing of their children to house helps who may not know any better

 

· Difficulty to adapt to new environment

The current trend in global economic development rewards people who are able to work and adapt to new environments. Our educational systems is not flexible to meet new trends ,therefore the youth finds it extremely difficult to adjust since their education and training do not encourage that.

 

· Tendency to waste their energies on unproductive ventures

Often the youth use their energy for unproductive ventures such as drug abuse, armed robbery, prostitution etc. among other things that affect the nation’s development in the long run .the youth as a result of this hindrance may not be able to help or contribute to the development of the nation.

 

The young people in nation building

 

Nation building or national development, is usually used to refer to a constructive process of engaging all citizens in building social cohesion, economic prosperity and political stability in a nation in an inclusive and democratic way. Going by the definition, it is seen that all citizens are to be involved in building or developing a nation. Thus, the involvement of youth in national development is a must. In fact, youths play one of the most important roles in nation building. Youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but also the partners of today. Young people are social actors of change and progress. They are a crucial segment of a nation’s development. Their contribution, therefore, is highly needed.

Why the youth must be involved in nation building.

1) The importance of a country is known by its people, their intelligence and work.

2) Nation building means engaging all people in the progress of country.

3) The future and the current condition of nation lies in the hands of youth.

4) Youth of our country Ghana is the future of our nation Ghana.

5) Youth represent the most dynamic and energetic section of the population in Ghana.

6) Youth is the age where there is a will for creativity and to do something new.

7) The objective and planning of development can be best completed by the youth.

8) Youth are more enthusiastic and energetic and they can change the destiny of a nation.

9) A nation develops easily when its youth become educated and employed.

10) For dynamic change youth need freedom of speech, expression and thought.

 

The role of young people in nation building

 

· Formal Education

 

The primary role of young people is to get a good education in order to become better citizens of tomorrow. Youth should be given the opportunity to develop their capacities through balanced education and exposure .They need to learn skills to do the job that their country’s economy needs. They also need to know how to read, write, think, understand, analyze, and discuss the issues their country faces. The entire success of the nation depends on the youths. However, in order for continuous success to take place, it is the Government’s responsibility to provide the youth with proper facilities for, getting equipped with the knowledge of the modern era.

· Skill acquisition

The youth of Ghana can be taught skills that can enable them gain employment which will intend allow them perform their responsibilities toward their mother land. They are filled with tremendous and towering ambitions. It will be a great wastage of human resources if these youths are not given an opportunity to exercise their talent. This beautiful land needs these youths in order for our soil to become a brighter one.

· Judicious use of their energy and exuberance

     The able bodied young men and women in the country are expected to use their energy                                        for profitable and productive venture .they are therefore, not expected to engage in social         vices such as armed robbery, prostitution, drug trafficking and smuggling, as these activities will set the nation’s clock of progress backward .

· Healthy life style

The nation expects her youth to adopt healthy lifestyles since they will be playing leading roles in the development of the nation. For instance, the nation expects the youth not to engage in casual sex lifestyles that will lead them to contract HIV /AIDS virus.

· Handwork

The nation expect her youth to cultivate the habit if hard work because it is only through hard work and other work ethics such as dedication and commitment that they would be able to contribute effectively to nation building .

· Maintaining their jobs and paying taxes  

The nation expects the young members of her population to try to as much as possible maintain their jobs so that they will earn income that will enable them honour their obligation of paying their taxes. This is because it is through the taxes that the government is able to improve on the social amenities like construction of new school building, provision of potable water, hospital, electricity.

· Learning from the aged

Since the aged has a wealth of experience, the young men and women in the country are expected to tap the experiences of the aged to enable them contribute effectively to national development. They must the youth need an experienced person who knows better to lead them in the right direction. Someone has to pull them up. Here also, the aged can be of immense help.

· Positive attitude to work

The nation expects her youth to exhibit positive work attitude at the work places because negative work attitude such as laziness, malingering, lateness to work among others can lead to low productivity  but positive work attitudes such as punctuality, a high sense of duty and commitment leads to high productivity.

· Replacing the aging workforce

Since the young men and women in the country are the potential manpower, they are expected to take over from the aging workforce, who in no time will leave the scene of social, political and economic life.

· Role model for younger children

The youth once more has the ability to bring about a change in their country. They have a positive influence on their fellow young people. They are able to teach them the positive things in life and negative Thing that are destroying their future. The younger ones tend to listen to their fellow youths. They will for instance be able to make them understand the importance of a good education

 

Self-assessment questions

1. Explain nation building?

2. Examine four challenges young people face in their role of promoting nation building?

3. State four attitudes required for nation building?

4. State four reasons why the youth must be involved in nation building?

5. Highlight five roles of the youth in nation building?

 

 

 

 

UNIT SEVEN

 AUTHORITY

  The meaning of authority

It is the power or right to direct the actions or thought of others. This is the power or right to give, make decisions and enforce obedience .This authority comes with the rank of and office. A person or organization having political or administrative power and control.

Meaning of order

Order can be defined as a situation in which people obey the law and follow the accepted rule of social behaviour. This basically means people do exactly what they are supposed to do and so the day to day activities in the community run smoothly without any chaos.

Meaning of law  

The system of rules which a particular community or country recognizes as regulating the actions of the members and which it may enforces by the imposition of penalties.it is a binding custom or practice that is prescribed or formally recognized by a supreme controlling authority and is made compulsory by a sanction.it is unlawful to go out without an exeat.

 Law and order

Law is the rule of conduct established and enforced by authority, legislation or custom of a given community. For instance, in every community in Ghana there is a law that says no one should steal another person property. This law is enforced by the police and other institution in the country. Those who break the law that forbids or disallows stealing are punished.

Types of law

· State laws

State laws are rules of conducts established and enforced by the government.

· Traditional laws

Traditional laws are rules of conducts established and enforced by the traditional rulers or community elders .an example of a traditional law is the law that bans community members from going to the farm on certain days .in some communities the day is Friday in some other communities the day is Tuesday .

 

Qualities of a good law

· A Good Law should be made Public

Any good law should not be operated secretly. Rather it should be made public. If a law is well known by all the people, it is most likely to be obeyed. It is often said that ignorance of the law is no defense. At times there may be too many laws in the country to the extent that people forget about some of them. It is therefore the duty of all citizens to try and learn the laws of the country. Your teacher will guide you to identify some of the laws in the country.

 

 

· A Good Law should be Reasonable

Laws are made for people, therefore the laws should be reasonable. What this means is that the laws should not be too harsh on the people. On the other hand, the law should not be too relaxed for people. If a law is too harsh and unreasonable people will protest and this can disrupt law and order in the country.

· A Good Law should apply to all Citizens

No matter the standing of any person in the society a good law should apply to all. This means is that whether you are poor or rich, young or old when you break any law you will be given the same punishment. That is why it is often said that all citizens are equal before the law. Do you think it is a good idea that al 1 laws should apply to all citizens equally? This also known as the rule of law.

 

· A good law must apply to everyone equally

A good law should not favour any person or group of persons .This means that it should apply to all persons equally regardless of one’s social standing, gender political or religious stand .a trotro driver if arrested for traffic offence should be dealt with as a minister will be dealt with if arrested.

 

· A good law should be capable of being enforced

A good law is the one which can easily be enforced .The law should be clear enough for the people in the society to understand. The details of the law should be told to the people. The punishment that comes with the law should be explained to the people.

 

· A good law should not go against human right  

A good law should seek to protect the fundamental human rights of the individuals in the society .for instance the law would have to make sure that freedom of movement is possible when movement is restricted during times of emergency.

 

· A good law should not be backdated

This means that the law cannot be backdated such that it takes effects from a date or time before the law was made. For instance if in January 2019 a new law is made in Ghana, this law cannot be backdated to take effect from January 2018.

 

Ways of maintaining law and order

This will look at ways we can maintain law and order by reducing unacceptable behaviour .There are a number of ways through which we can maintain law and order by reducing unacceptable behaviour in our communities. A few of them however will be discussed. They include the following;

· Education

 Public education is one of the ways through which the prevalence of unacceptable behaviour can be checked or reduced. There should be conscious efforts to educate the public in the constitution. This education can be done through the media. The media should include both print (newspapers) and electronic, television, wireless, video shows etc. The churches and other religious organizations can also help in the education. The National

 

 

Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) should also educate the people on their civic responsibilities.

· Enforcement of laws

 There are already enough laws that exist to check unacceptable behaviour. The problem appears to be the non-enforceability of the numerous laws. The various institutions should look at enforcing the various laws in the constitution. District, Municipal and Metropolitan Assemblies also have bye laws which should also be enforced.

· Punishing offenders

To maintain law and order, people in the community who go against the laws should be punished .the punishment can be in the form of fines or prison terms. Once others realize that punishment have been meted out to the perpetrators, other will learn from it and will not want to be the next to go to prison or pay a fine.

· The police and law courts

The police and the law courts are the institutions set up to maintain law and order in our communities. To do this effectively, they should be given the necessary equipment’s to enable them to play their roles. The police for instance should be given vehicles and other electronic devices they can use in communicating with other police men without haven to us their personal mobile phones in communication. This can help make preventing crime very easy and thereby maintain law and order.  

· Recognizing hierarchy and authority

Individuals should recognize and respects the hierarchy in their various communities. The community and or traditional leaders, the district chief executive the assembly men /women, unit community members etc., who make rules and regulations in the communities to bring order.

· Reporting all forms of  crimes

It is the responsibility of every citizen to report all forms of crime to the law enforcement agencies e.g. the police, chiefs, Assembly Members, Unit Committee Members, opinion leaders and other responsible people.

· Avoiding the Company of People with Bad Character

The company of people with bad character should be avoided. These people include; armed robbers, bullies, tax evaders and other social deviants (people who do not do what is expected of them in the society in which they live) the avoidance of such people could make them feel discriminated against and possibly stop their bad behavior.

 

Self-assessment questions

1. Explain authority?

2. What is Law and order?

3. Highlight four Qualities of a good law?

4. Examine four Ways of maintaining law and order?

 

UNIT EIGHT

JUSTICE

The meaning of Justice

The quality of being just, righteous, equitable, or morally right .Justice means punishing actions or words that are wrong and upholding things that are good. This helps to ensure that wrongs will be ended and rights will be upheld thereby leading to a safer society for everyone. It would seem sometimes that children have a keen internal sense of justice.

Types of justice

· Distributive justice

This is just allocation of goods and services in the society such that no matter or social or political standing one gets an equal share

 

· Environmental justice

Fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of origin, income, political affiliation or gender with respect to the development, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws.

 

· Occupational injustice

Occupational justice is the right of every individual to be able to meet basic needs and to have equal opportunities and life chances to reach toward his or her potential. This means that all opportunities in your area of study or occupation must be made available to you

 

· Open justice

A principle of the common law that proceedings ought to be made open to the public, including the contents of court files and public viewing of trials. It enables the public to know that justice is being administered impartially.

 

· Organizational justice

Organizational justice refers to employee perceptions of fairness in the workplace with regards to promotions etc.

 

· Poetic justice

Poetic justice is a literary device in which ultimately virtue is rewarded and viciousness is punished. It is the fact of experiencing a fitting or deserved retribution for one's actions .In modern literature it is often accompanied by an ironic twist of fate related to the character's own action.

 

· Social justice

This is justice in terms of the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society. Social justice is a concept of fair and just relations between the individual and society

The role of Justice in society

Social justice is the equal access to wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society. Justice in a society ensures all individuals have access to vital services. Equality is an essential principle of morality in politics whereby people get to enjoy distribution of resources and services without discrimination based on sex, race, social standing or political affiliation. The principles of social justice are an essential part of effective health and wealth promotion. The following are the reasons why there must be justice in the society

 

· It ensures everyone gets adequate healthcare

The importance of good health cannot be overstated. It is a matter of life and death. A society’s healthcare system determines who gets what services, and how much they have to sacrifice to get the care they need. When people strive for social justice in healthcare, they are working for better and more affordable insurance plans, access to medication, and more.

· It protects people with disabilities

Disability rights have been ignored and neglected for many years, but with social justice on the rise, people are finally getting a voice. Those with both visible e.g.……………………………………… and invisible disabilities……………………. are often discriminated against in their workplace, in healthcare, and more. For social justice to truly be justice for all, disability rights need to be included.

· It protects people from religion-based discrimination

A person’s religion is a central part of them, and freedom from religious discrimination falls right into the lap of social justice. Many countries have laws that discourage religious freedom, while others fail to enforce protections. Social justice advocates want all religions to be free and safe, including a person’s right to not follow any religion.

 

· It protects people from ageism

As people get older, they are often discriminated against simply because of their age. They might get fired from their job in favor of someone younger, or get treated with disrespect in their daily lives. Ageism, as a form of discrimination, falls under the scope of social justice.

· It defends people from racism

Discrimination based on race is another huge issue in most societies. It can make it hard for people to find work, live in peace, marry who they want, and more. A major trait of social justice is that people of every race can live well and have equal opportunities.

 

· It helps promote equality between genders

It seems like discrimination based on gender is one of the oldest forms of injustice around the world. Women and girls are the most oppressed group in history, and it gets worse for them if they are also members of another oppressed population, like a certain race or religion. Social justice strives to bridge the gap and empower women no matter where they are.

· It helps promote economic equality

The gap between the rich and the poor seems like it’s always expanding. The fact that some people struggle to buy enough food for their children while others get millions of dollars in a severance package is simply not fair. Equality does not mean that everyone is rich, but it should mean that everyone is able to meet their basic needs and live without being afraid that one setback could put them on the streets. Social justice is about securing everyone’s economic stability

· It helps improve educational opportunities for children

A good education is crucial to ending cycles of poverty and giving everyone the opportunity to fulfill their dreams. However, countless people are unable to get an adequate education simply because of where they live or because they are facing other discrimination. Social justice wants everyone to be able to learn in a safe place that is encouraging and that provides equal opportunities. All of society benefits when children get educated.

 

 

Self-assessment question

1. What is Justice?

2. State three types of Justice?

3. Discuss four roles of Justice in society