NCCE plea for sustainable funding, infrastructure upgrade

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) is facing major challenges. These include inadequate funding and poor infrastructure.

Madam Kathleen Addy, the NCCE Chairperson, expressed concerns about their offices. She described them as “infrastructurally very dangerous.”

She noted that the head office and regional offices are in disrepair. This situation hinders staff from working effectively. Madam Addy spoke during a visit by the Select Committee on Independent Constitutional Bodies.

The Committee visited six independent constitutional bodies to assess their challenges. They aimed to identify areas where Parliament could provide support.

Madam Addy mentioned that the NCCE relies heavily on dwindling donor support. She called for a stable funding mechanism for independence and sustainability.

“We can do the work, but we cannot fund projects,” she said. Institutions need to help fund projects they collaborate on, she emphasized.

Mr. Mahama Ayariga, Chairman of the Committee, responded positively. He stated, “We need to find ways to guarantee funding for these institutions.” He added that this should be done without political interference.

“Our doors are open for collaboration,” Mr. Ayariga continued. He expressed a desire to work together on ideas to protect these institutions.

The Committee also visited the National Media Commission and the Audit Service during their tour.

The NCCE was established by Act 452 of Ghana's Parliament in 1993. Its mandate includes educating Ghanaians about civic matters and promoting democracy. The commission is governed by a seven-member board led by a chairperson and includes two deputies and four members appointed by the President of Ghana.