The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), in partnership with the Ghana Education Service (GES) and Ulster University, UK, has launched a two-week co-production workshop aimed at developing the country’s first-ever fire safety curriculum for basic schools.

The workshop brought together fire safety experts, educators, international researchers and other stakeholders in a bid to instil fire safety knowledge and life-saving skills in Ghanaian pupils.

The initiative

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong described the initiative as a bold and timely response to the growing need for early fire safety awareness.

She said the goal was to raise a fire-conscious generation that could protect themselves, their families and their communities from fire-related emergencies.

“By introducing structured fire education into our schools, we are empowering the next generation to become agents of prevention,” CFO Sarpong stated.

She urged all participants, both local and international, to contribute actively to shaping the curriculum. 

CFO Sarpong also stressed the need for the workshop to yield not only a well-designed document but also a strong sense of shared ownership for its successful implementation.

“The drive for a safer Ghana continues to inspire initiatives like this. Fire safety must become a shared responsibility embraced by all citizens,” she said.

Evidence-based fire education

The Director of the Fire Safety Programme at Ulster University, Dr Nigel McConnell, lauded Ghana for its foresight in prioritising an evidence-based fire safety education programme for children.

“You are one of a handful of countries developing a national, evidence-based fire safety programme for children.

This effort sets Ghana apart,” Dr McConnell said.

“Our vision is for generational learning. We want children to carry this knowledge into adulthood and influence their communities positively,” Dr McConnell added.