OVERVIEW
The Campaign Against Corporal Punishment in Schools (CACPS) is a child protection advocacy initiative by Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG) aimed at eliminating corporal punishment and all forms of abuse in educational institutions.
Despite growing awareness of child rights, corporal punishment remains prevalent in many schools, creating environments that undermine children’s dignity, safety, and ability to learn effectively. These practices often lead to physical harm, emotional distress, and long-term psychological effects on students.
CACPS seeks to address these challenges by promoting safe, inclusive, and rights-based learning environments where children can thrive without fear, violence, or intimidation. Through sustained advocacy, public education, and stakeholder engagement, the initiative works to transform attitudes, strengthen child protection systems, and encourage the adoption of positive and non-violent discipline approaches.
Key Activities
1. Media Advocacy and Public Awareness
The campaign leverages traditional and digital media platforms to expose cases of abuse in schools, raise public awareness, and stimulate national conversations on child protection and rights.
2. School and Community Sensitization Programmes
CACPS conducts outreach programmes in schools and communities to educate students, parents, and community members on the harmful effects of corporal punishment and the importance of safeguarding children’s rights.
3. Stakeholder Engagement and Dialogue
The initiative engages teachers, school authorities, policymakers, and education stakeholders through forums and discussions aimed at promoting compliance with child protection standards and policies.
4. Policy Advocacy and Legal Enforcement Support
CACPS advocates for the enforcement of existing child protection laws and supports efforts to strengthen policies that protect children from abuse in educational settings.
5. Training on Positive Discipline Methods
The campaign provides capacity-building sessions for educators on alternative discipline techniques that are non-violent, effective, and supportive of children’s development.
Target Groups
The campaign focuses on key stakeholders within the education and child protection ecosystem, including:
- School children
- Teachers and school administrators
- Parents and guardians
- Education policymakers and authorities
Expected Impact
Through its comprehensive and collaborative approach, CACPS aims to achieve both immediate and long-term outcomes:
- Reduction in Abuse: Decreased incidents of corporal punishment and violence in schools
- Improved Child Protection Systems: Stronger mechanisms for safeguarding children within educational institutions
- Increased Awareness: Greater understanding of children’s rights among students, educators, and communities
- Adoption of Positive Discipline: Increased use of non-violent and effective discipline methods in classrooms
- Safer Learning Environments: Schools that promote dignity, respect, and emotional well-being
Strategic Partners (Potential/Engaged)
- Ghana Education Service
- Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection
- Civil society organizations and child protection networks
