Several development advocates view attitudinal change as a cornerstone for any society’s development and progress.
For such a school of thought, in the intricate journey of nation-building, the most cardinal ingredient required is not merely infrastructure or economic policies but rather, it is the collective mindset and behavioural ethos of its citizens that truly determine the trajectory of progress.
They further strongly posit that without a fundamental shift in attitudes, ingrained habits and cultural norms can act as barriers to advancement, hindering the realization of a country’s full potential.
Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh, the Executive Director of the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) in his recent call for action eloquently underscored the pressing need for attitudinal change for Ghana’s sustainable development and progress.
The renowned development advocate aptly pointed out the imperative role that the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) could play in catalyzing greater transformation and sustainable development for Ghana.
He asserted that by the National Commission on Civic Education spearheading a multi-year nationwide behaviour change campaign, the state civic body could instil two vital behaviours, including maintaining cleanliness in public spaces and fulfilling tax obligations.
This, Professor Prempeh further noted is not merely a plea for superficial adjustments but a profound recognition of the symbiotic relationship between individual actions and national progress.
He emphasized the importance of sustained efforts, leveraging various communication channels, from traditional media to digital platforms, to permeate society with messages of responsibility and civic duty.
Central to Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh’s call for action is the mobilization of all segments of society, say from the highest echelons of government to grassroots community organizations, every entity, he noted must echo, complement, and supplement the NCCE’s endeavours.
He also added that the call for corporate responsibility could be further exemplified by individuals and other corporate entities donating to the NCCE and the need for improved provision of infrastructure like refuse bins to facilitate the effort of making the country clean and safe.
This, Professor Prempeh underscored the interconnectedness of public and private interests in fostering societal well-being and national development.
Addressing Systemic Societal Issues
Moreover, the Executive Director of Ghana Centre for Democratic Development, Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh underscored that the call for attitudinal change extends beyond civic duties to encompass broader societal issues.
Whether tackling road safety, environmental conservation, or governmental accountability, Professor Prempeh asserted that the ethos remains consistent as transformation begins with a shift in mindset.
He also highlighted the necessity of addressing not only individual behaviors but also systemic issues. Fundamental to this endeavor according to Professor Prempeh is the recognition that law-abidingness is not innate but cultivated.
“No people are naturally or congenitally law-abiding. Law-abidingness is taught, trained and learned behaviour. The environment shapes behaviour.
“When we travel to places where the streets are kept clean and free of litter, we know instantly not to litter in public spaces. We have all the tools and instruments here to make the change we want to see, including leading by example. Start with the low-hanging fruits that have widespread public visibility; a sort of “broken-windows” approach. It is long overdue. Just do it”.
Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh, Executive Director Ghana Centre for Democratic Development
He emphasized the need for campaigns targeting governmental abuses of power, such as reckless driving and misuse of resources, which must be launched with presidential authority, signalling a top-down commitment to accountability and the rule of law.
Professor Prempeh further posited that enforcement mechanisms in such campaigns must include spot fines and community service sanctions to serve as deterrents while ensuring accountability and transparency in enforcement.
He emphasized that by leveraging technology, such as smartphone reporting of violations, citizens could be empowered to actively participate in the enforcement process, fostering a culture of shared responsibility.
In a nutshell, Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh’s statement serves as a clarion call for a holistic approach to attitudinal change among all citizens in the country.
It recognizes that true transformation transcends mere rhetoric or superficial initiatives as it requires a concerted, sustained effort that permeates every facet of society.
The urgency of this endeavour cannot be overstated as in a rapidly evolving global world, where the choices of today shape the destiny of tomorrow, Ghana cannot but to make a choice between adaptation and stagnation, between progress and regression.
As such, the government and all stakeholders must heed Professor Prempeh’s call with unwavering resolve.
The time for inaction has long passed as now more than ever decisive action is imperative. As Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh intimated the path to national development lies not just in grandiose plans or lofty aspirations alone but in the fundamental transformation of citizens’ minds.
It is also important to state that it is only through collective effort and a shared commitment to change that can help Ghana realize its full potential and usher in a future of prosperity and progress for all its citizens.
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