First Presential Phase of Capacity-Building Training Held in Accra, Ghana
From 12 to 14 January, Accra, Ghana, hosted the first presential phase of the capacity-building training supported by Misean Cara and promoted within the framework of strengthening project management and safeguarding with a child-rights approach. The gathering brought together all members of the African Mission Commission (AMC) representing the five regions of Nigeria, Madagascar, West-Africa, Pace and Southern Africa, marking an important milestone in the regional formation process.
A central component of the training focused on safeguarding according to Child Rights principles, facilitated by Br. Fortune Chakasara. Through participatory sessions, practical examples, and reflective dialogue, participants deepened their understanding of child protection, prevention of harm, and the responsibility of Marist works to place the dignity and rights of children at the heart of all actions.
Beyond the immediate learning outcomes, it confirmed the readiness of the AMC to reproduce the training through a cascade approach across all its territories. This train-the-trainer dynamic will allow the competencies acquired in Accra to be progressively transferred to provinces and local works, ensuring sustainability and a broader institutional impact.
The next two online training sessions are set for 10th February and 3rd March at 15:00 Italian time.
From 15 January onwards, the programme continued with field visits to several projects in Accra and Kumasi. These visits offered a concrete opportunity to witness the support provided by FMSI to the Mission of West Africa, reaching thousands of children, particularly those most at risk of exclusion. Education, social inclusion, and protection initiatives illustrated how a rights-based approach translates into tangible change in the lives of children and young people.
The visits also provided a valuable space for dialogue and forward-looking reflection on the Youth Empowerment Clubs Network. Particular focus was placed on the imminent opening of the first Youth Empowerment Club in Ghana, which will be established at Our Good Mother School in Ashalaja. This initiative marks an important step in strengthening youth participation, leadership, and empowerment within Marist educational contexts. At the same time, the AMC is invited to reflect on how to create synergies between the Youth Empowerment Clubs and other existing initiatives, such as Champagnat Global, in order to enhance coherence and impact.
Overall, the Accra presential phase emerged as a meaningful moment of learning, consolidation, and renewed commitment to serve children and young people—especially the one in conditions of vulnerability— through professional, coordinated, and rights-based action.
