Delivery Systems and Methods
In the process of the roles of Information, Education and Communication (IEC), a variety of media and delivery systems are used. The media for communicating Civic Education messages are through both the formal and informal channels. This include radio and television. The folklore drama groups and community out reach activities forms the basis of the non-formal channels.
1. Radio & Television Programmes
The radio and television are widely used in civic awareness creation. Community radios are instrumental in dealing with local issues whereas the national radio and television are better poise to cover issues of national concern. The strategy will be through panel discussions, live phone-in and airing of special activities in which NCCE and other stakeholders are involved.
2. Community Outreach Activities
This delivery method is based on the premise that grassroots participation is fundamental for the development of civic knowledge, skills and values. It is therefore necessary for activities to be undertaken at community level. The strategies involves the use of village meetings, social and cultural occasions and religious gatherings as means of transmitting civic information and messages. Participation of women and youth groups are found to be essential for the success of community activities.
3. Folklore Drama Groups
Gambia has a rich tradition of folklore drama. Folklore drama groups have traditionally been used for the entertainment and teaching of the younger generation on important cultural norms and values. The groups use songs and drama to convey important social and moral messages. They have proven to be effective in related social interventions such as malaria prevention, environmental protection, HIV/AIDS education and family planning. Our new strategy is to use the folklore drama groups to produce recorded songs and performances on video, radio and television.
4. Listening Group
This strategy focuses on small groups of people. It encourages the audience to listen to radio and television programmes or pre-recorded programmes and discuss them. This strategy facilitates debates and fosters the sharing of ideas.
5. School Based Civic Education
The notion that peace and war are created in the minds of people is one of the reasons why civic education is targeting school children. This strategy will integrate civic education into the mainstream school curriculum. As a result of the strategy, educational materials will be developed, education personnel and teachers will be trained and extra-curricular activities (debates & quizzes) organised.
6. Seminars & Workshops
This Strategic Programme being multi-sectoral and broad-based in nature, will targets organisations and institutions such as security forces, government departments, youth groups, women groups, CBOs and civil society. Seminars and workshops will be used to reach these target groups.
