SheSpeaks Forum, an affiliate of the Nneka Youth Foundation, a youth-focused non-profit organisation, marked the International Day of the Girl-Child at Agotime Senior High School in the Agotime Ziope District of the Volta Region.
The event brought together students, parents, and school-based facilitators to discuss challenges affecting the development of girls in the district. Students highlighted issues such as parental neglect forcing them to seek financial support from men, sexual abuse by influential community figures, peer pressure, and the lack of protective measures.
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Participants proposed holistic strategies to address the rising rate of teenage pregnancy in the area. A panel discussion examined community challenges affecting academic performance and youth development, particularly for girls. Panellists included Madam Cecilia Fiaka, Madam Aku-Sika Kpene, former Deputy Women’s Organiser of the National Democratic Congress, and Mrs Victoria Selorm Addo, a senior health practitioner, who shared insights and experiences while encouraging girls to aspire for equality, take responsibility for their actions, and set achievable goals.
Parents pledged to foster a supportive environment that promotes the growth and development of their daughters, while boys were encouraged to support their sisters and work in harmony rather than in competition.
The programme emphasised the critical role of stakeholders, including community and religious organisations, in guiding and mentoring girls. Twelve pupils who attended this year’s Summer Camp were introduced as District Ambassadors, tasked with positively impacting their peers with the support of the education sector.
The Nneka Youth Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to continued collaboration to advocate for youth development and combat social vices. The Foundation expressed gratitude to the Ghana Education Service (GES), Ghana Health Service, and the Minister of Gender and Child Protection for their unwavering support.
