In the lead-up to Ghana’s upcoming general elections, Ashesi University is taking a unique approach to ensuring a peaceful and informed voting process. Renowned for its focus on leadership and innovation, the university has partnered with Ga-Dangme queen mothers in an initiative aimed at educating their communities on the electoral process and promoting national stability.
Through this engagement, the queen mothers are empowered to lead efforts within their communities, advocating for peaceful, responsible voting as Ghana prepares for another defining moment in its democracy.
As part of its corporate social responsibility, Ashesi University’s initiative seeks to inform voters about proper conduct on Election Day. Voters are reminded to avoid loitering around polling stations and to refrain from wearing party colours when visiting these areas.
The queen mothers, tasked with engaging their communities, also emphasized the importance of correctly handling ballot papers to prevent spoiling them, particularly by ensuring the indelible ink does not smudge.
During group discussions, the queen mothers expressed concerns about the vulnerability of the youth, who are often enticed by quick financial gains from politicians during election periods. They stressed the need to dissuade young people from such influences, which can undermine the integrity of the electoral process.
Dr. Enyonam Kudonoo, a Senior Lecturer at Ashesi University, highlighted the pivotal role women play in societal development. She noted that the university has been running sensitization programs over the years to encourage women to take on leadership roles in their communities.
She urged Ghanaians to vote wisely, emphasizing that this is not the time for citizens to trade their long-term interests for temporary gains.
Naa Ablade, the Greater Accra Regional Organizer for the Queen Mothers Association and Queenmother of Sempe Newton, called on all Ghanaians to contribute to a peaceful and transparent election. She emphasized that while elections are vital for a functioning democracy, it is the collective responsibility of every citizen to uphold the integrity of the process.
The Ga-Dangme queen mothers also appealed to political figures to place the nation’s welfare above personal ambitions during their campaigns.
With their training in mediation and community development, these traditional leaders are not only educating their communities but are also playing a key role in transforming their localities to contribute to Ghana’s overall growth.
As the general election season unfolds, the collaboration between Ashesi University and the Ga-Dangme queen mothers stands as a testament to the broader call for peace, integrity, and responsible leadership, ensuring Ghana remains on a path toward a prosperous and democratic future.
