By Zobia Zulfqar 
Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has called for stronger public education on law enforcement and the rule of law, saying greater awareness will help build public trust, improve compliance with the law and strengthen national development.
She made the call on Monday, July 13, during a working visit to the Ministry for the Interior, where she met with ministry officials and representatives of several security and public institutions to review their achievements, challenges and government priorities.
According to the Vice President, many citizens still have limited knowledge of how security agencies operate and why certain laws exist. She said increasing public understanding of these issues is essential for effective governance and peaceful coexistence.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang explained that people are more likely to obey the law when they understand its purpose and the consequences of breaking it. She stressed that public education should become a key part of efforts to strengthen respect for the rule of law across the country.
She noted that effective law enforcement depends not only on the work of security agencies but also on the willingness of citizens to cooperate with them. Building that cooperation, she said, requires trust, transparency and continuous engagement with the public.
The Vice President said educating people about the responsibilities of security institutions would also reduce misunderstandings and encourage stronger partnerships between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
The meeting brought together several key officials and institutions under the Ministry for the Interior. Among those present were the Deputy Minister for the Interior, heads of the country’s security agencies and representatives from the National Peace Council, the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, the National Identification Authority, the Gaming Commission and other agencies operating under the ministry.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang said public education is critical for the successful implementation of laws and government policies, especially for citizens who are not directly involved in the decision-making process.
She explained that when people clearly understand government policies and legal requirements, they are better equipped to make informed decisions and contribute positively to national development.
The Vice President also stressed the importance of strengthening confidence in public institutions. She said trust in security agencies grows when citizens understand their legal mandates and recognise the role they play in maintaining peace, public safety and national security.
She encouraged government agencies to expand public awareness campaigns through schools, community meetings, traditional leaders, religious organisations and the media. Such efforts, she said, would help ensure that information reaches people from all backgrounds.
Legal experts have long argued that public education plays an important role in promoting respect for the law. Many believe that citizens who understand their rights and responsibilities are more likely to resolve disputes peacefully and cooperate with law enforcement authorities.
Security analysts also say stronger engagement between security institutions and local communities can improve crime prevention by encouraging people to report suspicious activities and work closely with the authorities.
The Vice President’s remarks come as the government continues efforts to strengthen governance, improve public service delivery and enhance national security through closer collaboration between state institutions and the public.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the Ministry for the Interior and its agencies in carrying out their responsibilities while promoting fairness, accountability and respect for the rule of law.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang concluded by urging all stakeholders to work together to build a society where laws are understood, respected and applied fairly. She said achieving lasting peace and sustainable development depends on a shared commitment to justice, civic responsibility and public trust in national institutions.