Grace Ano Abbey, a Principal Executive Officer at the Department of Children in the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, has highlighted poverty and irresponsible parenting as major obstacles affecting the academic performance of girls in schools.
Speaking at the 14th Annual Conference of the Federation of Muslim Women's Association in Kumasi, Abbey pointed out the challenges faced by numerous girls in affording basic learning materials, impacting their academic progress significantly.
“The major challenges we have when it comes to girls is poverty, the basic things they need to go to school, they don't get it, some parents cannot afford those basic things,” she stated.
Abbey emphasized the critical role of parents in monitoring and supporting their children's education, urging them to provide essential items such as sanitary pads and learning materials. She stressed the importance of these contributions in improving the academic performance of girls.
“Social media is always available, but they should focus on their studies so that they can excel and pursue careers as doctors and lawyers. Then, they can use social media more effectively,” she added.
Hajia Hajara Mohammed Rufai, a Commission Member of the National Commission for Civil Education, also highlighted challenges in Zongo communities, including insufficient educational facilities, lack of motivation, and mentorship. These factors, she noted, contribute to hindering the academic progress of children, especially girls, in Zongo areas.
Rufai underscored the need for concerted efforts to address these barriers to education in Zongo communities and create an environment conducive to learning opportunities for all children.